Hornet Mimic Hoverfly

Found in gardens, parks, and around the edges of woodlands; widespread in Europe and parts of Asia.

Adults feed primarily on nectar and pollen from flowers like ivy and buddleia; larvae are commensals in the nests of social wasps, feeding on waste materials and occasionally larvae.

Migratory in nature and known for impressive mimicry of hornets to avoid predators. They are excellent fliers capable of hovering perfectly still in mid-air.

Benefits the ecosystem as an important pollinator; harmless to humans as it has no sting, despite its hornet-like appearance.