Narrow-banded Hoverfly vs Progressive Bee Fly

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Narrow-banded Hoverfly Progressive Bee Fly
Scientific Name Meliscaeva auricollis Exoprosopa fasciata
Order Diptera Diptera
Family Syrphidae Bombyliidae
Size 7-10 mm 10-16 mm
Habitat Underground Deserts & Drylands
Diet Nectar Feeders Nectar Feeders
Regions Europe, Asia Africa, Asia
Conservation Least Concern Least Concern

Narrow-banded Hoverfly

A small hoverfly with narrow yellow crescent markings on a dark abdomen. It is among the first hoverflies to appear in spring.

💡

Did You Know?

Adults can be seen flying as early as February in mild winters.

Progressive Bee Fly

A large bee fly with boldly banded wings in dark brown and clear patterns. It is a fast and agile flyer, frequently hovering at flowers in arid landscapes.

💡

Did You Know?

Its boldly patterned wings may serve as camouflage when resting on dappled ground in arid habitats.