Bee Flies
What are they?
This group is well-named, for many species are bee-like, having stout, hairy bodies and spending much time feeding at flowers. Some species emerge early in the year and are some of the earliest insects to be seen in spring, hovering around violets, chickweed and other early-season flowers. Most species keep relatively low (below knee height) and some have obvious, long proboscises. The maggot-like larvae are usually predatory on other insects.
Identification
Bee flies are generally hairy-bodied, bee-like and have dark-patterned wings. Most species have relatively large heads that are more or less equal in width to the body. Some species are a little tricky to identify in the field but others can be identified by their general color and the patterning of dark areas on the wings.
Bombylius major
A common woodland species, most often seen skimming or hovering just above ground level and visiting flowers. Very restless and difficult to approach but readily recognized by its behavior, fuzzy brown bodies and wing markings.
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Chrysanthrax cypris
A common species of open, sunny spots during the summer. May be found along sunny woodland trails or often in gardens. Particularly common at mountain-mint flowers.
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Exoprosopa sp.
The species photographed here is not uncommon in Cape May County it seems, but little information appears to be available on this genus of bee flies in New Jersey. It is possible that at least some of these insects sweep north on favorable winds from the south during the hotter summer months.
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Exoprosopa meigenii
A dark-bodied species of beefly which can be found in open, grassy areas in the Belleplain area.
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Xenox tigrinus
Tiger Bee Fly. A common species which can be quite startling at first sight, due to its size - individuals can grow to 15mm or more in length! Despite their imposing appearance, these insects are not harmful to us and can often be found basking in the sun in open places. Adults are often found around wooden buildings where they seek out carpenter bee nests. Their maggot-like larvae are parasitic on carpenter bees. Easily approachable insects which readily perch on people.
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