Plain-faced Dronefly vs Giant Crane Fly
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Plain-faced Dronefly | Giant Crane Fly |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Eristalis arbustorum | Tipula maxima |
| Order | Diptera | Diptera |
| Family | Syrphidae | Tipulidae |
| Size | 9-11 mm | 30-40 mm body length, wingspan up to 65 mm |
| Habitat | Gardens | Rivers & Streams |
| Diet | Nectar Feeders | Detritivores |
| Regions | Europe, North America, Asia | Europe |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Plain-faced Dronefly
A small, dark dronefly with a distinctive bare facial stripe. It is one of the most common hoverflies visiting garden flowers in summer.
Did You Know?
It can be distinguished from other droneflies by the shiny, hairless stripe down the center of its face.
Giant Crane Fly
The largest European crane fly, with marbled wings spanning up to 65 mm. Larvae develop in wet leaf litter along stream banks and shaded ravines.
Did You Know?
With a wingspan approaching 65 mm, it is often mistaken for a giant mosquito but is entirely harmless.