Zodion Thick-headed Fly vs Sara Longwing

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Zodion Thick-headed Fly Sara Longwing
Scientific Name Zodion cinereum Heliconius sara
Order Diptera Lepidoptera
Family Conopidae Nymphalidae
Size 5-8 mm 55-70 mm wingspan
Habitat Underground Forests
Diet Nectar Feeders Nectar Feeders
Regions Europe, North America Brazil, Peru, Ecuador, Colombia, Central America
Conservation Least Concern Least Concern

Zodion Thick-headed Fly

A small, grayish-brown conopid fly with a slightly swollen head and prominent proboscis. It is commonly found on flowers where it stalks small bees and wasps for parasitism.

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Did You Know?

Unlike larger conopids that tackle bumblebees, this species specializes in parasitizing smaller sweat bees and halictids.

Sara Longwing

A striking longwing butterfly with velvety black wings marked by brilliant blue iridescent bands. It roosts communally in groups at night.

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Did You Know?

Groups of up to 15 individuals return to the same roosting branch every evening for months, guided by chemical cues.