About Long Hoverfly
A small, elongated hoverfly with a slender yellow-and-black striped abdomen. Males have an abdomen longer than their wings.
Did You Know?
It is one of the most common hoverflies found in agricultural landscapes across Europe.
How to Identify Long Hoverfly
Long Hoverfly (Sphaerophoria scripta) belongs to the order Diptera, family Syrphidae. Adults typically measure 8-12 mm.
Long Hoverfly Habitat
Long Hoverfly is found in farmland habitats, particularly across Europe, Asia, North Africa. This species has adapted to thrive in its preferred environment, where it can find suitable food sources and shelter.
Long Hoverfly Diet and Feeding
Long 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 Long Hoverfly Found?
Long Hoverfly can be found in Europe, Asia, North Africa, where it inhabits farmland environments. Its distribution is influenced by climate, food availability, and habitat suitability.
Distribution Map
Where Long Hoverfly can be found
Is Long Hoverfly Dangerous?
Long 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.
Long Hoverfly Role in Nature
Long 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 Long Hoverfly
What does Long Hoverfly look like?
The Long Hoverfly typically measures 8-12 mm.
Where is Long Hoverfly found?
The Long Hoverfly is found in Europe, Asia, North Africa and typically inhabits farmland environments.
What does Long Hoverfly eat?
The Long Hoverfly feeds primarily on nectar from flowers.
Is Long Hoverfly dangerous to humans?
The Long Hoverfly is generally harmless to humans. It does not bite or sting and poses no significant health risk.
What is an interesting fact about Long Hoverfly?
It is one of the most common hoverflies found in agricultural landscapes across Europe.
Cite This Page
APA:
InsectDiscover. (2026). Long Hoverfly (Sphaerophoria scripta). Retrieved from https://insectdiscover.com/insect/long-hoverfly
MLA:
"Long Hoverfly." InsectDiscover, https://insectdiscover.com/insect/long-hoverfly.