Chrysophilus snipe flies are approximately 3/8 to 1/2 inch (10-15 mm) in length. It is a tannish-brown color overall. The male has large, dark red eyes and the female has brownish eyes. The tapered abdomen is brown and tan. The abdomen has light-colored hairs (the scientific name, Chryso is Greek meaning golden and the Latin pilus means hair). The legs are long and tan. The wings are clear with a black smudge in the center.
The frequency of occurrence is not known but the individuals shown here were photographed in early to mid-June. These flies are typically seen perching on vegetation in woodlands in the spring.
There are 32 species in this genus in North America which includes small to medium-sized flies. The larvae live in soil or rotting wood.