Drone fly feeding on white Goldenrod flowers

Hoverflies are fascinating, have a variety of life strategies and behaviors, and help us better understand the world around us. They do not sting or chew and do not contaminate our food. Many species are attractive to see, with subtle shapes and often striking colors and patterns. They are mainly found even in comfortable and beautiful places, especially associated with the flowers they take nectar and pollen. There are many places around where we live, work, and travel, so you can enjoy strange moments and other activities such as gardening. A quick glance can be rewarding, but hoverflies can be intriguing in their lifetime. The following focuses primarily on adults, but the larvae themselves are of considerable interest.