Common Thick-headed Fly vs Tiger Crane Fly

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Common Thick-headed Fly Tiger Crane Fly
Scientific Name Sicus ferrugineus Nephrotoma flavescens
Order Diptera Diptera
Family Conopidae Tipulidae
Size 8-12 mm 13-18 mm body length
Habitat Underground Underground
Diet Nectar Feeders Herbivores
Regions Europe Europe
Conservation Least Concern Least Concern

Common Thick-headed Fly

A distinctive orange-brown fly with a disproportionately large, inflated head and a curved abdomen. It perches conspicuously on flowers waiting to intercept passing bumblebees.

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Did You Know?

The parasitized bumblebee eventually dies and buries itself in the ground, where the fly larva pupates inside the bee.

Tiger Crane Fly

A striking yellow crane fly with bold black stripes on the thorax. Adults are commonly found basking on sunny foliage in summer.

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Did You Know?

Its bold yellow and black thoracic stripes make it the most colorful European crane fly.