Silpha obscura

Range & Status

Formerly widespread in England but has become increasingly scarce.

Regional Distribution

There were only five old and widely scattered records from the Isles of Scilly and west Cornwall, until it was rediscovered at Forrabury Common, Boscastle in 1964 (S.M. Turk). It has been subsequently found at Pentire Head in 1979 (National Trust Biological Survey). There are two recent unconfirmed records: Cape Cornwall and Cubert, both in 1989.

Habitat & Ecology

Possibly a predator of molluscs and/or feeds on carrion. Usually found under stones and at the base of plants. Mostly known from sandy or chalky areas.

Threats

Loss of rough pastures through agricultural intensification or abandonment.

Conservation

All recent reports come from National Trust land.