Narcissus bulb fly

Gardens, parks, pastures, meadows, and agricultural fields where host bulb plants like daffodils, narcissus, and hyacinths grow.

Adults feed on nectar and pollen from flowers. Larvae bore into and feed on the inside of flowering bulbs such as Narcissus, Lilium, and Hyacinthus.

Adults are active, fast flyers that closely mimic bumblebees in appearance and fuzzy golden/black coloration. Females lay eggs near the base of host plant leaves; emerging larvae burrow into the bulb to overwinter.

Risks: Considered an agricultural and garden pest as larvae destroy ornamental flower bulbs. Benefits: Adult flies act as minor pollinators while visiting flowers for nectar.