Bug Identifier
Tiger Bee Fly
Community identification

Tiger Bee Fly

Xenox tigrinus

Order & Family
Diptera, Bombyliidae
Size
11 to 19 millimeters in length
See this bug in the Encyclopedia

Natural Habitat

Found in woodlands, gardens, and urban areas often near wooden structures

Diet & Feeding

Adults feed on flower nectar; larvae are parasitoids that consume the larvae of carpenter bees

Behavior Patterns

Often seen hovering or resting on sunny surfaces; females deposit eggs near carpenter bee nests

Risks & Benefits

Generally harmless to humans as they do not sting; beneficial as they help control carpenter bee populations naturally