Hoverflies, also called flower flies or syrphids, make up the insect family Syrphidae. As their common name suggests, they are often seen hovering or nectaring at flowers; the adults of many species feed mainly on nectar and pollen, while the larvae (maggots) eat a wide range of foods.

Wasps are flying insects that are known for their aggressive behavior and ability to sting multiple times. They have a slim waist and a smooth body with distinct yellow and black markings. On the other hand, hoverflies are harmless insects that mimic the appearance of …

Wasps and hoverflies are two common flying insects that get mixed up thanks to their very similar appearances. However, when you take a closer look, you’ll find that each has distinct characteristics, behaviours and habitats.

Sep 3, 2023 · Hoverflies, also known as flower flies or syrphid flies, are part of the insect family Syrphidae. These fascinating creatures are often mistaken for bees or wasps due to their color patterns, which mimic stinging insects as a form of protection from predators.

Feb 28, 2025 · Hover flies may resemble stinging wasps or bees, but they are completely harmless and play multiple, beneficial roles, including pest suppression and pollination services. One simple action to draw in beneficial insects is to plant plants with varying bloom times to provide a continuous season-long bloom.

Adults often mimic the color patterns of wasps and bees (compare to look-a-likes), presumably to gain protection from their own predators. However, unlike wasps and bees, these flies are incapable of stinging and are totally harmless. Review …

Jul 31, 2020 · Well, you might happen to spot a fake wasp which is often confused with the well-known stinging insect. The fly that looks like a wasp is called a hoverfly. In this article, we will identify both insects and outline the main differences between them. Hoverfly Identification. Hoverflies, known as flower flies, are part of the insect family ...

Jan 28, 2025 · Hover Flies are a type of Flower Fly that is helpful to people and completely harmless. This genus is considered a bee mimic thanks to its coloring and striped abdomen. Some species even mimic having two pairs of wings at rest (like the majority of bees and wasps).

Hovering in the air with near-invisible wings, the adult hoverfly pollinates flowers while its larvae devour pests like aphids. Attract it to the garden.

Aug 14, 2018 · Hoverflies are flies that look like bees or wasps. Their disguise is very good and casual observers often mistake them for small bees or wasps. Hoverflies, also known as Syrphid flies or flower flies, are found on every continent except Antarctica.