Metallic purple (and red and gold) fly ID?

[Gerel]

Hi,

anyone recognise this? It was in the garden today, about the size of a housefly. I thought perhaps a muscid but can't find anything resembling it.



The colours haven't come out particularly well in these pics BTW it was redder in the flesh.

Regards

Steve

[Geoff F]

Just going by the hairiness and the sharp bend in the 4th long wing vein, I would think Tachinidae family. Possibly one of the Bluebottle/Greenbottle relatives but I'm afraid that I quickly get lost with these variable species.

But we do have some Tachinid experts on this site so hopefully one may soon be along to help. Failing that there is a Tachinid Fly Recording site somewhere, although I may not have their address to hand.

[Lord V]

Not certain but think it's just an aged greenbottle fly - they do go some odd colours as they get sun bleached.
Brian v.

[Jason Green]

Morning Steve,

This colouration is age-related. Flies such as Green-bottles start off as a bright shining green, and then as they get older the light begins to reflect differently off the top surface - and subsequently start to appear red. You'll notice the worn wings, further evidence of age.

As for species, it could be a Lucilia sp., or even a Muscid - not too sure.

Take care,

Jason

[Gerel]

Thanks for the suggestions, judging by the state of the wings it being an old specimen of something common seems very plausible.


Steve

[JRsbugs]

Steve, it's Muscidae, looks like a very aged Eudasyphora cyanella. The white dusting is typical.

It's one I have, they have been around for some time now and are getting a suntan.

Janet