Bug Identifier
Hoverfly (drone fly type)
Community identification

Hoverfly (drone fly type)

Eristalis sp. (likely Eristalis tenax)

Order & Family
Diptera; Syrphidae
Size
About 10–15 mm long.
See this bug in the Encyclopedia

Natural Habitat

Gardens, meadows, and other flower-rich areas; larvae often develop in nutrient-rich standing water.

Diet & Feeding

Adults feed on nectar and pollen; larvae consume microorganisms and decaying organic matter.

Behavior Patterns

Often hovers in place and mimics a honeybee or wasp. The pictured insect’s single pair of wings and large eyes fit a hoverfly.

Risks & Benefits

Harmless to people: it cannot sting. Adults pollinate flowers, and larvae help break down organic matter.