Marmalade Hoverfly (Episyrphus balteatus)
TRUTH: It is not a Bee.
It does NOT have in its eyes.
It does NOT sting or bite.
Why this matters: The Marmalade Hoverfly is a gardener's best friend! Adults pollinate flowers while larvae devour hundreds of aphids, providing natural pest control without chemicals.
📖 About this Insect
Conservation Status: Least Concern (common and widespread)
Habitat: Gardens, meadows, forests, urban areas—highly adaptable
Ecological Role: Pollinator and natural pest controller
Lifespan: 2-3 weeks as adult, 2 weeks as larva
Fun Fact: Hoverflies can beat their wings 300 times per second and hover perfectly still in mid-air—a feat that requires incredible precision and energy!
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