Narcissus Bulb Fly vs Cheese Skipper

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Narcissus Bulb Fly Cheese Skipper
Scientific Name Merodon equestris Piophila casei
Order Diptera Diptera
Family Syrphidae Piophilidae
Size 10-15 mm 3-5 mm
Habitat Underground Caves
Diet Nectar Feeders Omnivores
Regions Europe, North America (introduced), Oceania (introduced) Cosmopolitan
Conservation Least Concern Least Concern

Narcissus Bulb Fly

A bumble bee-mimicking hoverfly that comes in multiple color forms matching different bumblebee species. Its larvae bore into and destroy daffodil and narcissus bulbs.

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Did You Know?

It exists in multiple color forms, each mimicking a different bumblebee species found in the same habitat.

Cheese Skipper

A small fly whose larvae infest stored cheese, cured meats, and other protein-rich foods. Larvae can leap up to 15 cm by curling and snapping their bodies.

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Did You Know?

Sardinian casu marzu cheese is deliberately infested with its larvae as a delicacy.