Bee Flies

Family Bombyliidae

Large bee fly (Bombylius pygmaeus). Photo:Stephanie Boucher

The larvae of Bombyliidae are parasitoids of immature stages of other insects or predaceous on grasshopper eggs. The adults feed on nectar, and are often seen hovering over flowers or resting on flowers or on the ground in sunny open areas. When resting their wings are held outstretched. Bombyliidae are small to large sized, stout-bodied flies. They have slender legs, short antennae, and usually a long proboscis. The wings are often patterned, and the body is covered with hairs or scales or both. Their colour and shape often make them look like bumble bees.