Helophilus

Brightly coloured and distinctive hoverflies, all Helophilus species have black and yellow stripes on the abdomen combined with extensive yellow markings on the abdomen. Five species have been recorded in the UK, but only three are likely to be encountered. Helophilus pendulus is a common garden species, whilst H.hybridus is restricted to damper areas. H.trivittatus is a scarce but widely distributed species. Unusually amongst hoverflies, both sezes have the eyes divided, making them extremely difficult to distinguish.

Helophilus pendulus - Common and widespread species with bold black stripe on face and black band between tergites 2 and 3

Helophilus hybridus - Wetland species, male with yellow markings on tergites 2 and 3 uninterrupted. Both sexes with hind tibia extensively dark

Helophlius trivittatus - Scarce species with an entirely yellow face and lemon yellow markings