Tapered Drone Fly vs Spotted Crane Fly
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Tapered Drone Fly | Spotted Crane Fly |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Eristalis pertinax | Nephrotoma appendiculata |
| Order | Diptera | Diptera |
| Family | Syrphidae | Tipulidae |
| Size | 12-16 mm | 15-25 mm body length |
| Habitat | Wetlands | Meadows |
| Diet | Nectar Feeders | Scavengers |
| Regions | Europe | Europe, Western Asia |
| 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.
Spotted Crane Fly
A brightly marked yellow-and-black crane fly common across European meadows. Its leatherjacket larvae develop in soil, feeding on plant roots and decaying matter.
Did You Know?
Despite their wasp-like yellow-and-black markings, spotted crane flies are completely harmless and cannot sting.