Scorpion Fly
Panorpa communis
Length 14mm

A strange-looking insect, the male of which has a scorpion-like, upturned abdomen. Flight weak and at rest holds wings flat. Head has beak-like downward projection used in feeding; scavenges dead animals, including contents of spiders' webs, and ripe fruit. Seen May-July in hedgerows and among brambles.