This particular species of female, Hover fly (Spilomyia longicornis) even has eye pigment which enhances the wasp-like appearance to mimic the yellow jacket. Hoverflies often called flower flies or syrphid flies, are true flies with only one pair of wings. As their name implies are often seen hovering near flowers. Hoverflies are common throughout the world, with over 6,000 known species, varying lengths from 5-20mm. Despite it masquerading as a wasp or bee, the hoverfly is harmless. They do not bite or sting. Hoverflies imitate so far as to even mimic the stinging action of a wasp by pushing the tip of the abdomen into your fingers if they are held.
This particular hover fly really caught my attention because of its yellow eyes - very rare in the hoverfly species I've generally photographed.
Flower: New England Aster.
Location: Conway, AR. October, 2008.
Photo # _KS10055.
(c) Kelly Shipp Photography.
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2 comments:
This is really beautiful, Kelly.
Thanks Lisa
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