5-10mm with the slim shape of other Xylota hoverflies. Males have four dull orange spots on the abdomen but females usually lack these and appear much darker. The hind femora are swollen. Key distinguishing features include very short antero-dorsal hairs on the hind femora (with longer hairs restricted strictly to the basal fifth of its length), and hind tibiae that are only narrowly pale right at the base.

Like many species in its genus, it acts as a visual mimic of ichneumon wasps, quickly running across sunlit foliage.

Good photo(s) needed.

Conifer woodland.

May - August

Widespread, especially in western and northern parts, but uncommon in central England.

Rare.

Steven Falk's album