Murky-legged Black Legionnaire

5-6mm. Males and females are noticeably different. Beris , as a genus, can generally be recognised by having 6 spines projecting from the scutellum (Four spines in Choriceps , however occasionally variants can have 5). Males (eyes touching) have a dark green thorax, smoky wings and very hairy eyes. Males legs are dull yellow-brown but with dark tarsi and an inflated hind basitarsus. Females (eyes widely separated) have a brighter glossy green thorax and clearer wings with a black stigma. Their legs are generally yellow with dark tarsi. There are 6 British species in the Beris genus and these can usually be distinguished by the combination of abdomen and leg colours. See ID Aids below. This genus of soldierflies are all of modest size with an elliptical abdomen. The abdomen is either blackish or mainly orange but without a striking pattern. They also have 6 spines projecting backwards from the scutellum. Note that flies in the related Chorisops genus have 4 spines. Note: as with many species there can be variation amongst specimens. Unless identified by a recognised expert, a photo is required. If the photo doesn't show the key ID features then in the comments box describe the size and identifying characters you have observed.