Volucella zonaria - Belted Hoverfly

Roscadghill Parc Wildlife

Belted Hoverfly
Volucella zonaria
- on Buddleja 1

Belted Hoverfly
Volucella zonaria
- side view 1

Belted Hoverfly
Volucella zonaria
- head / face 1

This species was found on Butterfly Bush (Buddleja davidii) almost on the same date, two years in a row, it may be that it likes Buddleja or that it is more common at this time of the year. It is the UK's largest species of hoverfly and its body colour and size mimics the hornet, an insect with a powerful sting. It also makes a loud humming sound, very similar to a wasp or bee, but the species is quite harmless. 24.07.12. SW4594030947.

All photographs on this page were taken at Roscadghill Parc and are © David Fenwick.

Roscadghill Parc is a small housing estate situated in Heamoor, Penzance, Cornwall.