Eristalis intricaria
This record describes Eristalis intricaria (species). Recorded family: Syrphidae. Recorded order: Diptera.
Identification and Appearance
This large hoverfly is unlike the other UK Eristalis species in being a furry bumble bee mimic. The males are dark with a reddish-brown tail whilst the female has a white tail and is somewhat larger. This species always has a yellow scutellum. Merodon equestris , a similar furry bumble bee mimic with the same loop in the R4+5 vein found in the Eristalini, has all black legs. It is most commonly seen in marshy woodland. Larvae have been found in farmyard drains and ponds with decaying vegetation. It is widespread in Britain but not usually numerous.
Classification
Habitat and Range
Habitat
It is most commonly seen in marshy woodland.
Seasonal Activity
March to November peaking in July.
Diet and Behavior
Life History
Larvae have been found in farmyard drains and ponds with decaying vegetation.
Additional species information
Recorded status
It is widespread in Britain but not usually numerous.
About Flies: the wider group
Order-level background for Diptera, the group containing Eristalis intricaria. Species-specific details appear above.
Group overview
Diptera includes over 150,000 described species of flies, mosquitoes, and midges. Mosquitoes are the deadliest animal on Earth (CDC). Malaria alone causes ~249 million cases and over 608,000 deaths annually, mostly children under 5 (WHO). Vector-borne diseases account for over 17% of all infectious diseases, causing 700,000+ deaths per year.
Ecological role of the group
Despite their disease impact, flies are critical decomposers and pollinators. Hoverflies alone pollinate hundreds of crop and wildflower species. Flies are also the primary food source for many birds, bats, and fish. Forensic entomology relies heavily on fly species for crime scene analysis.
Economic and practical significance of the group
In the U.S., vector-borne disease cases tripled between 2004-2016, with over 640,000 cases reported in that period (CDC). Tickborne diseases doubled from 22,000 to 48,000 annual reports. Globally, mosquito-borne diseases cost billions in healthcare and lost productivity.
Recorded sources for this group: WHO, CDC, PNAS. Imported estimates may describe particular regions or reporting periods.
Photos of Eristalis intricaria (10)
Frequently Asked Questions About Eristalis intricaria
What is Eristalis intricaria?
Eristalis intricaria is a species in the family Syrphidae, within the order Diptera.
Where is Eristalis intricaria found?
Habitat: It is most commonly seen in marshy woodland.
When is Eristalis intricaria active?
Eristalis intricaria: seasonal activity - March to November peaking in July..
What is the life cycle of a Eristalis intricaria?
Larvae have been found in farmyard drains and ponds with decaying vegetation.