In Disguise

No, not a wasp. Not a bee and not a hornet. It's a type of hoverfly that mimics hornets and so remains safe from attack from the genuine articles. They are 'good guys'.

The Big Butterfly Count begins today; you can choose any day you like between 11th July and 4th August to take part. I'm postponing taking part until early August as I've still seen zero butterflies in my area so far this 'summer'. (Weather report today, chilly brisk north-east wind, 100% cloud cover, 16C early afternoon).


Volucella zonaria (Hornet Mimic Hoverfly)