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Alydus calcaratus
Family: Alydidae

The sole UK representative of the Alydidae, this large blackish bug is unmistakeable. The 4th antennal segment is curved and the hind femora bear several spines. It is a powerful flier, exposing an orange patch on the surface of the abdomen which can recall a spider-hunting wasp. 

The larvae resemble ants and develop within ant nests.

Although widely distributed across England and parts of Wales, it is local and found primarily on dry heathland.

Adult: All year
Length 10-12 mm
 Alydus calcaratus
Adult: Surrey (August 2008) ©Tristan Bantock
Alydus calcaratus Alydus calcaratus
Adult: Dorset (August 2008) ©Mark Dunkling

 		Adult: Kent (July 2009) ©Tristan Bantock
Alydus calcaratus Alydus calcaratus nymph
Adult: north London (September 2009) ©Tristan Bantock
 		Nymph: Kent (July 2009) ©Tristan Bantock