A fascinating group of insects with some interesting mimics.
Here are three to start off with. Feel free to shoot my IDs down in flames
First two Eristalis tenax (Drone Fly)
Epistrophe eligans
Helophilus pendulus
The following key covers Helophilus sp.:
http://home.hccnet.nl/mp.van.veen/KEYS/Helophilus/helo_key.html
The last pic is another Eristalis tenax I think.
Love this thread, and Brian it is such a good idea to start it off.
Love the pictures and, I have got to admit they are beautiful insects to look at. enjoy seeing them in the garden.
Unfortunately I only have a basic book (need to buy so many books at the moment!!). The only 2 pictures I have are of the Drone Fly and the Hover Fly. Of course there are lots that exist.
So I will tread forth to the book shop, and buy what is needed when more organized here
Anyone got a good book to buy in mind here? Appreciate any suggestions? If the book is combined, as a insect book, that will be all right too.
(I have had a good recommendation for a butterfly and Moth book at the moment, so I will add this on to my list!)
Thank you for your help :t: