The hornet mimic hoverfly belongs to the hoverflies and with its length of 2.5 cm is larger than the average hoverfly.
Do not confuse with:
European hornet (Vespa crabro)
Hornet mimic hoverfly (Volucella zonaria). The hornet mimic hoverfly belongs to the hoverflies (Syrphidae) and with its length of 2.5 cm is larger than most hoverflies.
The hornet mimic hoverfly lives on nectar and pollen. This hoverfly has a sting, but does not sting. Because of that sting and its resemblance to the European hornet (Vespa crabro), the hornet mimic hoverfly keeps enemies at bay.
The larvae of the hornet mimic hoverfly live at the bottom of wasp nests where they live on dead wasps. The larvae overwinter in the wasp nest to pupate into the next generation the following year.
The hornet mimic hoverfly prefers urban buildings and occurs in much of Europe. As the summers get warmer, hornet mimic hoverflies will be seen more and more often in wooded hedgerows and gardens.
Where to find
- Urban environment
Control
The hornet mimic hoverfly is not harmful, it does not sting.
Prevention
Does not apply.
