Episyrphus balteatus - Marmalade hoverfly - Animal India

Episyrphus balteatus, commonly known as the marmalade hoverfly, is a small hoverfly species measuring 9 to 12 mm in length. It belongs to the Syrphidae family and is widely distributed across the Palaearctic region, which includes Europe, North Asia, and North Africa. This species is recognized as the most abundant native hoverfly in Central Europe. Marmalade hoverflies are known for their curious nature and often linger around plants to observe other insects. They exhibit partial migratory behavior, migrating in large swarms to warmer climates during the fall and returning in the spring. These hoverflies are frequently spotted in groups in gardens, parks, and woodlands. As important pollinators, marmalade hoverflies feed on nectar and pollen from flowers, playing a vital role in the ecosystem. Here Marmalade hoverfly flying around various wildflowers like Lantana (Lantana camara) and wild leaves in a forest at Tehatta, West Bengal, India, on December 25, 2024.