Scorpionfly

Description:

Wingspan approx 35 mm. It can be identified by its patterned wings and sturdy beak. The scorpion-like tail is only seen in the male and is in fact its genitalia and doesn't sting. Panorpa species are very similar and require close examination with a microscope or good hand lens to distinguish them. In males this involves looking at the ventral surface of the genital capsule and in females the ovipositor.

Habitat:

Hedgerows, nettle beds and well wooded areas.

Notes:

I'm not sure which species this is but it has to be one of the three Panorpa species that can be found here. Either Panorpa germanica, Panorpa communis or Panorpa vulgaris. Spotted in Nieuwe Rande in rural area of Deventer, Holland. (sources:see reference)