Tapered Drone Fly vs Ornate Soldier Fly
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Tapered Drone Fly | Ornate Soldier Fly |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Eristalis pertinax | Odontomyia ornata |
| Order | Diptera | Diptera |
| Family | Syrphidae | Stratiomyidae |
| Size | 12-16 mm | 8-12 mm |
| Habitat | Wetlands | Ponds & Lakes |
| Diet | Nectar Feeders | Herbivores |
| Regions | Europe | Europe |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Tapered Drone Fly
A large hoverfly resembling a honeybee but distinguished by its yellow-tipped front tarsi. It is active from early spring to late autumn.
Did You Know?
It is one of the earliest hoverflies to appear in spring, sometimes flying on warm days in February.
Ornate Soldier Fly
A medium-sized soldier fly with a green and black patterned abdomen and a somewhat flattened body. Adults are sluggish fliers often found basking on waterside vegetation.
Did You Know?
Its aquatic larvae have a unique hydrophobic tail fringe that acts as a breathing snorkel at the water surface.