Hornet Hoverfly
TQ4693 22/06/2017 ©Raymond Small
Volucella zonaria
A big hoverfly sometimes mistaken for being a hornet. It is seen from May to November. Black and yellow markings deter predators and the clever mimicry allows this species to pass freely into wasp nests to lay eggs without being challenged. When the eggs hatch the hoverfly's larvae grab wasps to devour them. After overwintering in the nest the larvae emerge in spring as adult hoverflies. Also known as the Belted Hoverfly.
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