The Bombylius major commonly known as the Large bee-fly derives its name from its close resemblance to bumblebees and are often mistaken for them. This fly exhibits a unique flight behaviour known as yawing and despite its looks, this fly does not sting or bite and plays an important role in general pollination, without preference of flower types.
Bombylius major uses mimicry of bumblebees to its own advantage, allowing close access to host solitary bee and wasp nests in order to deposit its eggs. After hatching, the larvae find their way into the nests to parasitically feed on the grubs
Photos were taken at Bradlaugh fields barn herb garden, Northampton, England
Text Reference Wikipedia Bombylius major: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bombylius_majorhttps://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bombylius_major