Syrphid Fly - female

Description:

Also commonly called Flower flies or Hover flies, most syrphid flies are wasp or bee mimics. This helps protect them against predators. The larvae of many species, particularly E. americanus, are beneficial predators, feeding on soft bodied pests such as aphids, thrips and other plant-sucking insects. Adults nectar from flowers and are considered important pollinators.

Habitat:

Most of North America. Usually found on flowers.