Rufa Soldier Beetle Cantharis rufa

The Rufa Soldier Beetle is some 8-12mm long and common in much of Europe, including the UK.

Shown is the "dusky form", with darkened, dusky red wing cases. The pale form is a lighter red. Most other soldier beetles have either red or grey-black wing cases. Distinguishing features of Rufa are the dark patches behind the eye (figurata also can have) and the pale red legs.