Longhorn beetle

Description:

Leptura quadrifasciata, better known as Strangalia quadrifasciata, is a 'longhorn beetle' (i.e. a member of the family Cerambycidae). It has the long antennae characteristic of the family and, like most longhorns, is associated with old woodland, where its larvae are wood-borers in old trunks and stumps and logs. They are variable in their patterning and identification can be difficult. L. quadrifasciata is, however, a distinctive species, with the four yellow bands running across its elytra, though the size of these bands can vary. Most readily confused with it is its more common relative, Rutpela maculata, in which the yellow markings usually join up to form larger areas of yellow, and which also has yellow on the legs.

Habitat:

Widespread in Britain and in Europe.