Common drone fly

The common drone fly got its name because it mimics a male honeybee, which is known as a drone, in appearance but also in how it moves when in flight.

It is very common across the UK and can be seen all year round.

It can be identified by its dark brown body and the orange patches at either side of the top of its abdomen.

Also, to tell the difference between a male honeybee and the drone fly, look out for a lack of antennae on the fly.

The larvae can be spotted in ponds, and look like maggots with a very long tail.

Look out for them all over the Botanic Garden.