DIPTERA > BRACHYCERA | Higher Diptera

MUSCOMORPHA > ASCHIZA >  Syrphoidea > Syrphidae > Eristalinae > Volucellini

This tribe of large hoverflies consists of a single genus, represented by five varied species. As well as being both impressive and distinctive, they have two specific features; plumose aristae, and wings with an unusual re-entrant outer cross-vein.

The most widespread species according to the distribution maps is Volucella pellucens, commonly known as the Great Pied Hoverfly. It is a rather handsome, unmistakable species that favours sheltered locations such as woodland rides and sheltered paths.

Volucella bombylans is an interesting bumblebee mimic that occurs in two forms: a two-tone, black and orangey- yellow species with a pale 'tail' that loosely resembles the white-tailed bumblebee, Bombus lucorum; and a darker, generally black species with a golden orange 'tail' that is likened to the red-tailed bumblebee, Bombus lapidarius. The photos below show both variants, but it should be noted that the individual from Kitt's Grave is much darker than more typical examples I've seen pictures of.

The other species are featured separately on the next page.

Sept.24