Giant Lacewing Osmylus fulvicephalus

Sometimes known as Giant Stream Lacewing. Apparently commoner in parts of southern and western Britain, this is a rare species in Norfolk. It was found at East Bilney ford in 1963 but not reported in the county again until 2022 when one was swept at East Carleton Carrs, which is where I found one again in 2026. The species is found alongside stony streams where there is moss and may be found by sweeping vegetation. Apparently it is occasionally found at light, but another good way of finding one is to look under bridges over suitable streams.

This is a large lacewing, although perhaps not quite as large as you might expect given its vernacular name. The forewings are heavily marked.

Giant Lacewing Osmylus fulvicephalus, East Carleton Carr (Norfolk, UK), 1st July 2026