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Orchesella villosa is widespread and common in southern England and Wales, but appears to become increasingly scarce as one moves further north (Arne Fjellberg has not recorded this species from Fennoscandinavia). It is one of our largest species reaching 5.0 mm in length. The pigmentation on the body is quite variable (Figs. 1 to 5) and it is possible that there may be more than one species 'hiding' under the name 'villosa' (quinquefasciata and litoralis to name but two). For the moment, however, it is probably best to record all the varieties under one name pending further research on the species boundaries.
The basal segments of the antennae are usually dark. However, the 'hairs' are often rubbed off.
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