Volucella inflata

There is a strong resemblance to the more common species V. pellucens except that the markings on tergite 2 are deep orange, as is the thorax.

Heavily wooded areas and mainly restricted to ancient semi-natural woodland.

May to September peaking in June and July.

Associated with the sap runs on trees.

Records are largely confined south of a line between the Severn and the Wash. Local even in this area, but can be fairly frequent in the most suitable locations.

Infrequent in Leicestershire and Rutland. The Burbage Wood record of May 2011 may be the first record for VC55 although it is well recorded in nearby Northamptonshire.