Neuroptera

Chrysopidae

Green Lacewings

The Green Lacewings are probably the most familiar European members of the Neuroptera, although their nocturnal habits does mean they are often overlooked. Unique among the Neuropterans, members of the Chrysopidae lay their eggs at the end of a short strand of mucus which solidifies instantly on exposure to the air.

Chrysopa perla - Cheshire, England - June 2008

Chrysopa perla is a very common species in England, Wales and southern Scotland, especially along woodland edges and in scrubby grasslands.

Chrysoperla carnea - Nottinghamshire, England - August 2011

Chrysoperla carnea is abundant in the UK, and combined with its closely related, and very similar species pair C. lucasina, accounts for the vast majority of lacewings encountered in the British Isles.