Brachypalpoides lentus
A very attractive hoverfly with a deep crimson band occupying most of the abdomen
Xylota segnis is superficially similar but is somewhat smaller with a less striking orange band on the abdomen and partially pale legs.
Favouring old woodland and is quite shade-loving.
The larvae develop in the rotting heartwood of species such as Oak and Beech.
Widespread though localised in Britain.
Seems to be uncommon in Leicestershire and Rutland
Graham Calow
Elmesthorpe Plantation, Burbage
24 May 2018
Ian Harding
Sheet Hedges Wood
26 May 2023
Peter Smith
Cold Overton
03 June 2017
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Species profile
- Species group:
- insect - true fly (Diptera)
- Kingdom:
- Animalia
- Order:
- Diptera
- Family:
- Syrphidae
- Records on NatureSpot:
- 4
- First record:
- 03/06/2017 (Smith, Peter)
- Last record:
- 04/06/2025 (McKeating, Ron)
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Peter Smith
Cold Overton
03 June 2017
