Gespikkelde wolzwever
Bombylius medius
Overview
The Gespikkelde wolzwever (Bombylius medius) is a distinctive bee fly characterized by its fuzzy, bear-like appearance and mottled wing patterns that give it its Dutch name meaning 'speckled wool weaver.' This medium-sized dipteran plays a crucial ecological role as both a pollinator of early spring flowers and as a parasitoid of solitary bee larvae, with adults hovering near flowers while their larvae develop within host bee nests.
Bombylius medius faces severe population declines primarily due to habitat loss from agricultural intensification and urban development across its European range. The species is particularly vulnerable to changes in land use that eliminate the flower-rich grasslands and woodland edges it depends on for nectar sources and suitable breeding sites.
Habitat
Bombylius medius inhabits sandy heathlands, coastal dunes, and open woodland edges where solitary bees nest in exposed soil or sandy banks. The species requires areas with abundant early spring flowers such as primroses and violets, along with suitable nesting sites for its solitary bee hosts.
Other threatened species in Bombyliidae
Threatened in Albania
Frequently asked questions
Why is Gespikkelde wolzwever classified as Endangered?
Where does Gespikkelde wolzwever live?
What are the main threats to Gespikkelde wolzwever?
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