Episyrphus balteatus variations

[Geoff F]

A couple of days ago I discovered a strange looking hoverfly which caused me a bit of head scratching over identity. Eventually it turned out to be a very extreme dark form of the common Episyrphus balteatus, sometimes known as Marmalade Hoverflies.



Slightly dark forms aren't uncommon in the spring or autumn when cooler temperatures as the larvae develop will produce darker adults. This is a typical dark form.



The normal form summer flies are instantly recognisable.

[Shadowman]

Nice series.

[JBW]

love how the flower brings out the details.

[Wavelength]

Fine images as usual

[DanK]

I've never seen one like that.

In terms of aesthetics, the third one of the common form is IMHO by far the best. It's a good composition, well-lit and well-focused, with an attractive background. Nice all the way around.

[Geoff F]

The normal form was an insect which followed the instructions about posing for a camera.

Occasionally, an insect is discovered in an idea position with just the right light level so a reasonable photograph is possible. If only they all behaved like that.

With the odd colour form I just managed one quick shot about 5 feet away and it was gone before I could even think about alternative closer angles. Experience has taught me that if you spot something unusual, take a quick shot at a safe distance so if you fail to get something better at least you have some sort of image with which to consider an identification.

[JBW]

The normal form was an insect which followed the instructions about posing for a camera.

Occasionally, an insect is discovered in an idea position with just the right light level so a reasonable photograph is possible. If only they all behaved like that.

With the odd colour form I just managed one quick shot about 5 feet away and it was gone before I could even think about alternative closer angles. Experience has taught me that if you spot something unusual, take a quick shot at a safe distance so if you fail to get something better at least you have some sort of image with which to consider an identification.

Amen