Southern Long-legged Fly vs Narrow-banded Hoverfly

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Southern Long-legged Fly Narrow-banded Hoverfly
Scientific Name Chrysotus gramineus Meliscaeva auricollis
Order Diptera Diptera
Family Dolichopodidae Syrphidae
Size 2-3 mm 7-10 mm
Habitat Ponds & Lakes Underground
Diet Herbivores Nectar Feeders
Regions Europe, Asia, North America Europe, Asia
Conservation Least Concern Least Concern

Southern Long-legged Fly

A tiny, brilliantly metallic green long-legged fly commonly found on vegetation near water. It runs rapidly across leaf surfaces hunting for small prey.

💡

Did You Know?

Despite their tiny size, dolichopodid flies are among the most species-rich predatory fly families globally.

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.