Hornet Hoverfly vs Common Stiletto Fly
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Hornet Hoverfly | Common Stiletto Fly |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Volucella zonaria | Thereva nobilitata |
| Order | Diptera | Diptera |
| Family | Syrphidae | Therevidae |
| Size | 18-22 mm | 8-12 mm |
| Habitat | Woodlands | Heathland |
| Diet | Scavengers | Herbivores |
| Regions | Europe, North Africa | Europe |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Hornet Hoverfly
Europe's largest hoverfly and a convincing hornet mimic with bold yellow-and-brown banding. Its larvae develop as scavengers in the nests of social wasps and hornets.
Did You Know?
Its larvae live inside hornet nests, feeding on dead wasps and nest debris while being ignored by the colony.
Common Stiletto Fly
A slender, densely hairy fly with a pointed abdomen and silvery-white body hairs. Adults bask on sunlit leaves and bare ground, making short rapid flights when approached.
Did You Know?
Stiletto fly larvae are important biological control agents, feeding on root-eating pest larvae in sandy soils.