Range
across Canada to C. America
(3)Habitat
Adults found in diverse habitats -- forests, fields, meadows, savannas, prairies, marshes, bog, fens, deserts, stream margins, and alpine areas. They are highly adaptable and can occur in very disturbed habitats
(1)Food
Larvae prey on aphids, thrips, small caterpillars
Life Cycle
This larva pupated less than 24 hours after photo:
This image was taken within 24 hours of pupation:
Another puparium, shortly before emergence of adult:
When the pupa is exposed to heat, the adults look very pale and orange. If they develop under cold conditions, they turn much darker, sometimes nearly completely black. (Comment by Martin Hauser)
Remarks
very common; larvae prey on many plant pests
♀
♂