Eristalis intricaria

Alternative names
Eristalis intricarius
Description

This large hoverfly is unlike the other UK Eristalis species in being a furry bumble bee mimic. The males are dark with a reddish-brown tail whilst the female has a white tail and is somewhat larger. This species always has a yellow scutellum.

Similar Species

Merodon equestris, a similar furry bumble bee mimic with the same loop in the R4+5 vein found in the Eristalini, has all black legs.

Identification difficulty
Habitat

It is most commonly seen in marshy woodland.

When to see it

March to November peaking in July.

Life History

Larvae have been found in farmyard drains and ponds with decaying vegetation.

UK Status

It is widespread in Britain but not usually numerous.

VC55 Status

Fairly frequent in Leicestershire and Rutland.

Leicestershire & Rutland Map

MAP KEY:

Yellow squares = NBN records (all known data)
Coloured circles = NatureSpot records: 2025+ | 2020-2024 | pre-2020

UK Map

Species profile

Species group:
Hoverflies
Kingdom:
Animalia
Order:
Diptera
Family:
Syrphidae
Records on NatureSpot:
59
First record:
02/07/1989 (Neil Frankum)
Last record:
21/08/2024 (Pochin, Christine)

Total records by month

% of records within its species group

10km squares with records

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