This hoverfly is a master of disguise — it mimics the yellow-and-black stripes of a wasp but is completely harmless. Unlike wasps, Syrphus ribesii can’t sting or bite. Its larvae play a vital role in pest control, munching on aphids in gardens and fields.

One of the UK’s most common hoverflies, this species is widespread in gardens, meadows, hedgerows, and parks. You’ll spot them hovering or darting between flowers from April to October, particularly on sunny days.

Adults feed on nectar and pollen from a wide range of wildflowers including daisies, dandelions, cow parsley, and hogweed.
The larvae develop in colonies of aphids, helping reduce their numbers naturally.