Winter Crane Fly vs Eastern Calligrapher

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Winter Crane Fly Eastern Calligrapher
Scientific Name Trichocera annulata Toxomerus geminatus
Order Diptera Diptera
Family Trichoceridae Syrphidae
Size 5-10 mm 5-7 mm
Habitat Woodlands Woodlands
Diet Detritivores Nectar Feeders
Regions Europe, North America North America
Conservation Least Concern Least Concern

Winter Crane Fly

A cold-adapted crane fly that forms mating swarms in winter even in freezing weather.

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Did You Know?

It can be seen dancing in aerial swarms on sunny winter days near buildings.

Eastern Calligrapher

A tiny hoverfly with intricate black calligraphic markings on a yellow abdomen. It is one of the most abundant flower flies in eastern North America.

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Did You Know?

Despite its small size, it is one of the most effective aphid predators in North American gardens.