Kingdom: Animalia
Phylum: Arthropoda
Class: Insecta
Order: Diptera
Family: Muscidae
Genus: Helina
Species: H. impuncta
 

Helina impuncta is a fairly common species of fly belonging to the Muscidae family, the same family that includes the familiar house flies and stable flies. It is found throughout much of Europe, including the UK, and is most often seen in woodlands, hedgerows, and shaded grassland areas.

This species is a medium-sized, greyish fly, typically 6–8 mm long, with a smooth thorax lacking dark stripes (as its name impuncta suggests — meaning “unspotted”). The body is covered with fine hairs, and the eyes are large and reddish. The wings are clear, and the legs are dark.

Adult Helina impuncta are usually seen from spring through to autumn, often resting on leaves or low vegetation. They feed on nectar, decaying matter, and other organic substances, playing a role in the decomposition process and nutrient cycling in woodland habitats.

The larvae develop in decaying plant material or other organic debris, contributing further to decomposition and soil health.

Although not as conspicuous as some of its relatives, Helina impuncta is an important part of woodland ecosystems, acting as both a pollinator and decomposer.