Long Hoverfly vs Giant Tachinid Fly

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Long Hoverfly Giant Tachinid Fly
Scientific Name Sphaerophoria scripta Tachina grossa
Order Diptera Diptera
Family Syrphidae Tachinidae
Size 8-12 mm 12-18 mm
Habitat Farmland Heathland
Diet Nectar Feeders Nectar Feeders
Regions Europe, Asia, North Africa Europe, Asia
Conservation Least Concern Least Concern

Long Hoverfly

A small, elongated hoverfly with a slender yellow-and-black striped abdomen. Males have an abdomen longer than their wings.

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Did You Know?

It is one of the most common hoverflies found in agricultural landscapes across Europe.

Giant Tachinid Fly

The largest tachinid fly in Europe, covered in dense black bristles. It parasitizes large moth caterpillars and is often seen on flowers in late summer.

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Did You Know?

Despite its intimidating bee-like appearance, it is completely harmless to humans.