SCIENTIFIC NAME: ERISTALIS TENAX
VERNACULAR NAME: DRONE-FLY

Fig 1
DESCRIPTION Wing length 8 - 13mm. A very common species best identified by the front tarsus that is entirely orange and the basal half of the hind tibia which is pale compared to similar species. The body tapers slightly and the 2nd tergite has orange, triangular markings that can be variable in size.
BEHAVIOUR Males are very territorial defending their small patch with vigour.
DISTRIBUTION

Common throughout.

HABITAT

Seen in gardens, parks, woodland hedges and hedgerows.

PERIOD Several broods from March to November.

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