Drone-fly

Eristalis Tenax

Hoverfly with a very long flight season, from March to November. A honeybee mimic, abundant along hedgerows and in woodland and gardens.

Large bee-fly

Bombylius Major

This stocky parasitic fly is a bee mimic that lays its eggs in bees’ nests. Flies March-June; hovers with its long proboscis held out in front.

Hairy-footed flower-bee

Anthophora Plumipes

Solitary bee on the wing March-May: often visits hedgerow or garden flowers. Male ginger with dark bands; female black with orange-tufted hind legs.