Episyrphus balteatus, sometimes called the marmalade hoverfly, is a relatively small hoverfly (9 to 12 mm; 0.35 to 0.47 in), in the family Syrphidae. It is widespread throughout the Palearctic region, which covers Europe, North Asia and North Africa, and is considered to be the most abundant native hoverfly in Central Europe. The upper side of its abdomen is patterned with orange and black bands, which may appear wasp-like to other animals, such as birds, protecting it from predation – an example of Batesian mimicry. It can be found throughout the year in various habitats, including urban gardens, visiting flowers for pollen and nectar. This male E. balteatus hoverfly was photographed on a valerian in Wengen, Switzerland.
Photographer: Charles J. Sharp
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