Common Sootywing vs Two-banded Wasp Hoverfly
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Common Sootywing | Two-banded Wasp Hoverfly |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Pholisora catullus | Chrysotoxum bicinctum |
| Order | Lepidoptera | Diptera |
| Family | Hesperiidae | Syrphidae |
| Size | 22-28 mm wingspan | 10-14 mm |
| Habitat | Gardens | Underground |
| Diet | Nectar Feeders | Nectar Feeders |
| Regions | United States and southern Canada | Europe |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Common Sootywing
A very small sooty-black skipper with scattered tiny white spots on the forewings. It is a common but easily overlooked butterfly of disturbed habitats and gardens.
Did You Know?
It thrives in weedy urban areas that most butterflies avoid, making it a true butterfly of the city.
Two-banded Wasp Hoverfly
A striking wasp-mimicking hoverfly with bold yellow and black banding. Distinguished from wasps by its hovering flight and single pair of wings. Larvae develop in ant nests.
Did You Know?
Despite being a harmless hoverfly, its excellent wasp mimicry deters most predators.