Scaeva pyrastri
West Worthing, West Sussex
[ Wingspan: 9.25 - 12 millimetres ]
Scaeva pyrastri is a relatively large hoverfly with obviously white abdominal markings. It has been found across most regions of the British Isles.
The unusualyy white markings do not run parallel with the abdominal segments (tergites, but instead are oblique, forming a club-shape that turns from the outside forward towards the front of the insect. They have a swollen frons behind the enlarged antennae.
These insects often arrive in substantial numbers, yet in other years are rarely seen. This individual was photographed in early July 2025.
