ISoldier Beetle > Cantharis rustica
Description: Narrow, elongated body and soft, smoothish, slightly hairy elytra indicative of the Cantharidae, of which there are about 40 species in the UK.

Food and habits: Adults active May to August, usually on flowers, particularly umbellifers such as Hogweed, and are carnivorous, sometimes feeding on other visitors. The larvae live on the ground, feeding on a variety of other creatures.

Habitat and range: Any well-vegetated habitat. Common and widespread throughout the UK.

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