IHoverfly > Eristalis intricarius
Description: As with all Eristalini, it has a deep loop in wing vein R4+5, and the upper and lower outer cross-veins form a virtually continuous line parallel to the wing margin. A bumble bee mimic, with a range of variable colour patterns, it has the base of the hind femur pale-coloured, as opposed to Merodon equestris, another bee-mimic, which has entirely black legs and an apical ventral projection on the hind femur. Also note the dark, crescent-shaped markings mid-way along the outer edges of the wings.

Distribution: Not an abundant species numerically, it is nevertheless fairly common throughout the UK.

Flight period: March to November, peaking in late July.

Behaviour: Comes to flowers readily but males can also be seen hovering some way above the ground. Frequently found on umbelllifers, such as Hogweed, and also Common Knapweed.

Similar species: Merodon equestris has similar patterns, but its legs are completely black. Volucella bombylans is also superficially similar, but has no U-shaped bend in the veins.
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