Scorpion flies are so-called because the males have an upturned and curled over sting-like tail, resembling a scorpion, though they are quite harmless. They live as scavengers, or weak predators, including the skilful removal of prey from spiders’ webs without themselves being caught. Their preferred habitat is woodland, hedgerows and other places with trees and shade.

A distinctive group of insects, with a long downward-pointed beak, and the male’s upturned tail. The wings are spotted with black and the body is yellowish. They feed on dead and dying insects and invertebrates.