Hoverflies, or Flower-flies, are a fairly common family of flies. They are exceptional fliers and are generally found hovering around flowers. Many species are confused with wasps or bees because of their similar appearance, though Hoverflies do not have a “stinger.” When in doubt, count the wings: the hoverfly has 1 pair of wings and the bees or wasps have 2 pairs of wings. The adults feed on flower nectar and aphid honeydew. Their larvae may scavenge in dung and decaying matter or graze on aphids, while others are aquatic.

The Coal Oil Point collection contains ten morphospecies of Hoverflies.

Hoverfly Photos (click to enlarge)
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