Hover Flies (family Syrphidae)
Hover Flies are one of the most easily recognisable flies, due to their ability to hover and their wasp-like appearance. This mimicry means they are more likely to avoid attack by birds and other predators, and unlike wasps they are harmless. There are about 250 species Britain.
Habitats
Hover Flies are found in a range of habitats, particularly where there are plenty of flat-topped flowers, such as Cow Parsley.
Behaviour
Many hoverfly species mimic wasps to avoid attack Over 250 species have been recorded in the UK, and more than 85 species have been found in a single garden.
Breeding
Like other flies, female Hover Flies lay eggs that hatch as larvae, before they pupate and emerge as adults
Feeding
Hoverflies feed on nectar from flowers, an d are important pollinators. Larvae eat decaying plant and animal matter in the soil or in ponds and streams.