About Hoverfly
Excellent Batesian mimics of wasps and bees. Important pollinators often overlooked. Can hover perfectly stationary in mid-air and even fly backwards.
Did You Know?
Hoverflies are so skilled at hovering that they can maintain their exact position in space even in strong winds, adjusting wing beats up to 300 times per second.
How to Identify Hoverfly
Hoverfly (Episyrphus balteatus) belongs to the order Diptera, family Syrphidae. Adults typically measure 7-12 mm.
Hoverfly Habitat
Hoverfly is found in underground habitats, particularly across Europe, Asia, Africa. This species has adapted to thrive in its preferred environment, where it can find suitable food sources and shelter.
Hoverfly Diet and Feeding
Hoverfly feeds primarily on nectar from flowers. In doing so, it acts as an important pollinator, transferring pollen between plants and contributing to plant reproduction and biodiversity.
Where Is Hoverfly Found?
Hoverfly can be found in Europe, Asia, Africa, where it inhabits underground environments. Its distribution is influenced by climate, food availability, and habitat suitability.
Distribution Map
Where Hoverfly can be found
Is Hoverfly Dangerous?
Hoverfly is generally harmless to humans. It does not bite or sting and poses no significant health risk. Like most insects, it prefers to avoid human contact and will typically flee rather than confront a perceived threat.
Hoverfly Role in Nature
Hoverfly plays an important role as a pollinator. By visiting flowers to feed on nectar or pollen, it transfers pollen between plants, aiding in reproduction and helping to maintain plant diversity. Pollinators are essential for the production of many fruits, vegetables, and wildflowers.
Seasonal Activity
Frequently Asked Questions About Hoverfly
What does Hoverfly look like?
The Hoverfly typically measures 7-12 mm.
Where is Hoverfly found?
The Hoverfly is found in Europe, Asia, Africa and typically inhabits underground environments.
What does Hoverfly eat?
The Hoverfly feeds primarily on nectar from flowers.
Is Hoverfly dangerous to humans?
The Hoverfly is generally harmless to humans. It does not bite or sting and poses no significant health risk.
What is an interesting fact about Hoverfly?
Hoverflies are so skilled at hovering that they can maintain their exact position in space even in strong winds, adjusting wing beats up to 300 times per second.
Cite This Page
APA:
InsectDiscover. (2026). Hoverfly (Episyrphus balteatus). Retrieved from https://insectdiscover.com/insect/hoverfly
MLA:
"Hoverfly." InsectDiscover, https://insectdiscover.com/insect/hoverfly.