Golden-tailed Hoverfly vs Alpine Crane Fly

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Golden-tailed Hoverfly Alpine Crane Fly
Scientific Name Chrysotoxum cautum Tipula alpium
Order Diptera Diptera
Family Syrphidae Tipulidae
Size 10-14 mm 15-22 mm body length
Habitat Heathland Grasslands
Diet Nectar Feeders Root Feeders
Regions Europe Alps, Central European mountains
Conservation Least Concern Least Concern

Golden-tailed Hoverfly

A wasp-mimicking hoverfly with bold yellow and black bands and long antennae. It flies with a distinctive slow, wasp-like flight pattern.

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Did You Know?

Its unusually long antennae enhance its wasp mimicry, fooling both predators and humans.

Alpine Crane Fly

A large crane fly of mountain pastures and alpine meadows. Its larvae are soil-dwelling and feed on grass roots.

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Did You Know?

Despite their fragile appearance, adults can fly in strong mountain winds.