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This is what the large bee-fly looks like

 

 

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From April to June a rather loveable fly can be seen in action. Its name in Estonian might be ”mesilas-kägukärbes”, bee cuckoo-fly. The name is not officially acknowledged yet. But because of its appearance the name would be quite justified. The furry and stout body makes one guess at a small bee or even bumblebee, but counting the number of wings makes it clear that a clever two-winged insect tries to confuse the observer for a moment.

 

This fly is peculiar also in that it has long, thin legs and a long proboscis, or sucking snout, that is visible on sucking nectar from flowers as well as  at rest. In addition the large bee-fly is capable of hovering flight like the hoverflies (Syrphidae).

 

In terms of body measurements the bee-fly is quite small. The length of the brown fur-covered body is 10 - 12 mm, the proboscis adds another 6 mm. The span of the dark-edged forewings is 9 - 14 mm.

 

The larvae of the bee-fly live as parasites on the larvae of solitary bees and wasps. Hence the word ”cuckoo” in the proposed Estonian name is justified, alluding to its not very civilized lifestyle.