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Shropshire Invertebrates Group - Invertebrates of Shropshire
Criorhina ranunculi - a hoverfly
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Hoverflies are very varied in
colour and form. Amongst the 270 plus species in the United Kingdom is the
distinctive genus Criorhina. Criorhinas mimic bees. This
species, C. ranunculi is an excellent bumblebee mimic. All Criorhinas
are uncommon and all are associated with old trees, usually in old
woodlands. Criorhina ranunculi is one of the earliest hoverflies to emerge in spring. It can be found about woodland edges at sallow catkins, blackthorn, cherry and other Prunus blossom. The males fly about trees, "headbutting" other flies and bees - very distinctive behaviour. This striking hoverfly has been recorded in the Wyre Forest, in woodland near Highley, at Eastridge Wood - Minsterley and at Llanymynech Heritage Area. |