Hoverfly sightings w/c 5th October 2025

How many hoverflies are still around after storm Amy?

Date 5^th October: Time of recording 3-4pm, Location Barnsley Main. Gusty winds just after storm Amy.

Common Banded (Syrphus ribesii) 9♀+1♂, I do wonder whether there were some Hairy-eyed Banded (Sryphus torvus) as not all were captured. Common Dronefly (Eristalis tenax) 1♀ on Bristly Oxtongue (Picris echiodes).

Hoverfly - Greater Hornet Plumehorn (Volucella zonaria)

Greater Hornet Plumehorn (Volucella zonaria) Size: 15.5-19.5mm Flight: May-Nov

Species of the week – 6^th October

This our largest hoverfly (In the U.K) and if you have seen one you can probably understand why it’s often mistaken for the European hornet Vespa crabo, and with good reason. Its markings mimic the hornet in both colouration and design, a classic example of Batesian mimicry. However, this hornet mimic will not sting, bite or get aggressive defending a nest, as doesn’t have one and is often seen late summer and into autumn on a warm day.

 

A Wilder Future for the Uplands

Unleashing the Power of Nature to Recover & Restore the Countryside

Thought of the week is slightly different this week because over the last few days I have been at a conference, in Sheffield, about the uplands. Listening to many passionate speakers debate the state of the uplands and what needs to be done to restore them. 

https://www.ukeconet.org/wilder-future-for-the-uplands.html