Habitat
Adults: terrestrial
Immatures: terrestrial

Feeding Habits
Adults: nectar and pollen feeding
Immatures: parasitoid

North American
Species: 800

Diptera Bombyliidae
Bee flies

Special Characteristics: Bombyliidae are small to large sized, stout-bodied flies. They have slender legs, short antennae, and usually a long proboscis. The wings are often patterned, and the body is covered with hairs or scales or both. Their colour and shape often make them look like bumble bees.

Comments: The larvae of Bombyliidae are parasitoids of immature stages of other insects or predaceous on grasshopper eggs. The adults feed on nectar, and are often seen hovering over flowers or resting on flowers or on the ground in sunny open areas. When resting their wings are held outstretched.

Species:
Bombylius pygmaeus Fabricius

Common Name:
Large bee fly

Feeding Habits: Larvae are parasites in nests of solitary bees. The adults feed on nectar.

Distribution:
Widespread in Canada.

Comments:
This species is often found on flowers visited by solitary bees and is usually common in gardens, meadows and open fields.