Volucella sp.

Birderfirst · Joined: 22 Sep 2006 Posts: 50

Today in my Northants garden I noticed a 'super large' hoverfly - it looked like a huge hornet. My camera was already on the side in the kitchen and I dashed down to the buddleia and managed a couple of shots before it tore off with a loud buzz!

It was not much later in the year in 2006 that I had V. zonaria and I thought that this was a return of the sp., but I just would like to have confirmation that it is not V. inanis.
Can I thank any respondants in advance for their help.

I am picking up a copy of 'British Hoverflies' this weekend, hope my i.d. skills improve!

Mick Parker · Joined: 21 Sep 2005 Posts: 26 Location: Weymouth

Hi Birderfirst,
Yes, it is V zonaria,
If you can add a Grid Ref? then I am sure
that the record would be useful,
All the best, Mick

Roger K.A. Morris · Joined: 06 Nov 2005 Posts: 1652

Hi

Just to follow up on Mick's comment - this is a good record - we'd like a grid ref as this species is gradually spreading northwards.

Regards

Roger