Eristalis tenax
True Flies (Diptera) > Hoverfly (Syrphidae) > Eristalis tenax
As can be seen from these images, the amount of orange on the abdomen is extremely variable. A good guide to this species is the 'U' shaped loop in the third main wing vein. Another important feature is the thickened rear legs.
Drone Fly (Aristalis tenax). Copyright Peter Drury 2010
Ethan Winning
on April 19, 2010I know it's early in the season, and we have our share of bees and flies (hover and otherwise), but butterflies are in short supply this year. Love this gallery, and particularly this drone. Hey, I'm still trying for birds in flight: going macro will take a little time.