Goldeneye Lacewing vs Hover Fly

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Goldeneye Lacewing Hover Fly
Scientific Name Chrysopa oculata Syrphus ribesii
Order Neuroptera Diptera
Family Chrysopidae Syrphidae
Size 15-20 mm 10-13 mm
Habitat Gardens Underground
Diet Nectar Feeders Nectar Feeders
Regions North America Europe, Asia
Conservation Least Concern Least Concern

Goldeneye Lacewing

A common North American green lacewing with prominent golden eyes and a distinctive black head marking. Frequently found in gardens and orchards.

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Did You Know?

When disturbed, goldeneye lacewings release a foul-smelling odor from specialized glands as a defense mechanism.

Hover Fly

A bright yellow and black banded hoverfly that is an excellent wasp mimic. It hovers motionless in sunbeams before darting to a new position with extraordinary agility.

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Did You Know?

Hoverflies are the only insects besides hummingbirds and hawk-moths that can truly hover in one spot, fly backward, and fly sideways with precision.