Community identification
Tiger Bee Fly
Xenox tigrinus
- Order & Family
- Diptera: Bombyliidae
- Size
- 15 to 22 mm (approx. 0.6 to 0.9 inches) in length.
Natural Habitat
Gardens, forests, and grassy areas, often found near the nests of carpenter bees.
Diet & Feeding
Adults feed on plant nectar; larvae are parasitoids that consume the larvae of carpenter bees.
Behavior Patterns
They are mimicry masters that resemble bees or wasps. Females hover near carpenter bee nests to flick their eggs into the entrance tunnels.
Risks & Benefits
Harmless to humans as they do not sting or bite. They benefit the ecosystem by acting as pollinators and naturally controlling carpenter bee populations.