Hover fly
Eristalis rupium
Photo: Wikimedia Commons (CC) via https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Eristalis_rupium
Overview
Eristalis rupium, commonly known as the spot-winged drone fly, is a species of syrphid fly that was first described by Fabricius in 1805. It is a common European species, and uncommon in North America. Hoverflies get their names from the ability to remain nearly motionless while in flight.
The adults are also known as flower flies as they are commonly found around and on flowers, from which they get both energy-giving nectar and protein-rich pollen. The larvae are aquatic filter-feeders of the rat-tailed type, found in streams with clear water.
Eristalis rupium faces severe population declines primarily due to habitat loss and degradation of its specialized wetland breeding sites. Agricultural intensification, urban development, and water pollution have significantly reduced the availability of suitable bog and fen habitats where larvae develop in organic-rich water bodies.
Other threatened species in Syrphidae
Threatened in Åland Islands
Frequently asked questions
Why is Hover fly classified as Endangered?
Where does Hover fly live?
What are the main threats to Hover fly?
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