Question: I am interested in identifying this unknown garden visitor. I originally IDโd it as a native bee but after closer inspection, I am not sure if this is a bee.
Answer:ย Your visitor is a bee mimic sometimes called a bee fly. It is a member of the fly order (Diptera) and the family Bombyliidae. As larvae, these insects are parasites of other insects. As adults, we generally see them feeding on nectar and pollen. They canโt harm humans and are not considered to be pests.
Peter L. Warren is the Forest Health Program Coordinator for the Arizona Department of Forestry and Fire Management. Questions, photos and videos may be emailed toย tucsongardensage@gmail.com
