Common banded hoverfly
Syrphus ribesii
Conservation status: Common
When to see: March to November
About
The common banded hoverfly is a ubiquitous species often seen along hedgerows, gardens and woodlands. These hoverflies are known for their distinctive banding pattern and are easily recognisable as expert mimics of wasps.Interestingly, the common banded hoverfly has multiple broods, and adults are on the wing throughout the spring and summer months. The larvae, on the other hand, survive the winter as pupae. One fascinating behaviour of this hoverfly is that it creates a humming sound when resting by vibrating its wings, possibly to ward off predators. As a gardener’s friend, the common banded hoverfly’s role as a predator of aphids helps control pest populations, and its presence as a pollinator is crucial for many plant species.
| See also different: | Garden flies |
