23rd July 2025

Thistle-stem Gall

Thistle-stem Gall Fly (Urophora cardui). These galls were found on the host plant Creeping Thistle (Cirsium arvense) in the churchyard. The tiny fly is quite an attractive bestie. There may be several larvae munching away inside the gall. These will pupate when large enough and emerge from the gall anytime from June onwards to autumn.