Allotments 4 All

Found this chap on the coastal footpath around Flanborourgh Head.  Does anyone know what breed he is?

What size was it? It looks like one of the oil beetles. The larvae of the British ones are parasitic on solitary bees.

Big - at least an inch long

Those are the big oil beetlers, but I don't know the species. I badly need a few more insect identification books.

Thanks - will google to find out more

:)

he's a beauty must look out for one of those,

Robert - I have Collins Complete British Insects by Michael Chinery which I find very helpful /shades x