Important pollinators, aerial acrobats, wasp and hornet imitators, Hoverflies are a fascinating group of insects. In the summer when birds are not so much in evidence around the island, I enjoy looking out for and photographing these insects. Some are spectacular, some are so small I need time to get my eye in. Out on the coast, they are attracted to the wild radish and, later in the summer, wild fennel. They are abundant in my wildlife garden where they feed on hawkweed, cat’s ear and dandelions.
Identification of some hoverflies is straightforward but for many of them it is a nightmare. For some, identifiaction to a particular species needs the insect to be dissected. It is important work but not for me. I like to photograph them and create habitats in my garden where they can thrive.
Natural history of the Bailiwick of Guernsey 