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Scaeva hoverflies, like the common Pied Hoverfly (Scaeva pyrastri), are large, fast-flying insects known for their distinctive creamy-white or yellow comma-shaped markings (lunules) on a shiny black abdomen, mimicking wasps but having only one pair of wings. They are excellent pollinators, visiting many flowers, while their larvae are voracious predators, consuming hundreds of aphids, making them valuable in gardens and agriculture. These species are often migratory, with populations moving from Europe to places like Britain in summer, though some females can overwinter.
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Key Facts:
Appearance: Large (10-12 mm), black body with white or yellow "comma" spots on the abdomen; yellow face; large eyes (touch in males).
Diet (Adults): Nectar and pollen from diverse flowers (daisies, honeysuckle, fruit trees).
Diet (Larvae): Aphids, consuming hundreds in their development.
Behavior: Fast, agile flyers, often hovering; mimic wasps/bees but don't sting.
Habitat: Gardens, meadows, wasteland, arable crops, hedgerows.
Life Cycle & Migration: Migratory, arriving from southern Europe in summer; overwintering is mostly by females in warmer areas.
Ecological Role: Important pollinators and natural pest controllers (aphid predators).
