This is one of the most easily recognised beetles in the England. It’s called the cardinal beetle (Pyrochroa serraticornis). Its red head readily distinguishes it from the black headed Pyrochroa coccinea and the similar but unrelated “Lily beetle”. It’s about 2 cm long (1/2 inch) and relatively common in England (May to July).
The “taking flight” photo was taken on 26th May and the egg laying photos were taken on 6th June. Camera was Fuji 6900z and photos were hand-held. I was particularly pleased with the lift-off pic as it shows the elytra being lifted and the hind wings unfolding.
Bruce
