Fever Fly vs Crotch's Bumblebee
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Fever Fly | Crotch's Bumblebee |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Dilophus febrilis | Bombus crotchii |
| Order | Diptera | Hymenoptera |
| Family | Bibionidae | Apidae |
| Size | 5-7 mm | 10-16 mm |
| Habitat | Farmland | Heathland |
| Diet | Nectar Feeders | Nectar Feeders |
| Regions | Europe, Asia | California, western USA |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Endangered |
Fever Fly
A small, shiny black march fly with spiny front tibiae used for digging. It was once believed to cause fevers in humans, hence its common name, though it is completely harmless.
Did You Know?
Its spiny front legs are used by females to dig into soil for egg-laying, an unusual adaptation among flies.
Crotch's Bumblebee
A western North American bumblebee that has declined by over 90% from its historical range. Once common in California's Central Valley. Threatened by pesticides and habitat loss.
Did You Know?
Has vanished from most of California's agricultural Central Valley where it was once the dominant bumblebee.