Bumblebee Blacklet!

Cheilosia illustrata is a bumblebee mimic with a black and white appearance and an orange tail. The wings have clouds.

 

Cheilosia illustrata is commonly encountered on Hogweed and Angelica flowers in midsummer. It is widespread and locally common in Hogweed-rich habitats, especially grasslands, hedge margins, woodland edges and wide woodland rides.

 

Adults fly from May to August. The larvae develop primarily in the roots of Hogweed but Wild Parsnip and possibly Angelica may also be used.

 

Thanks to Steven Falk for the rather lovely common name for this hover!

Done