Hoverfly

Syrphidae

Content coming soon for this insect guide.

Insect Profile

Beneficial Rating

+5 Beneficial

Active Months

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec

US Distribution

NortheastSoutheastMidwestSouthwestWestPacific Northwest

Habitat Preferences

gardensmeadowsforest edgesfields with flowers and foliage

Taxonomic Group

Fly

Order

Diptera

Family

Syrphidae

Lifecycle

Hoverflies have a complete metamorphosis with four life stages: egg, larva, pupa, and adult. Single, tiny, white eggs are laid on leaves, usually near aphid colonies. The eggs hatch in about 3 days. The larvae, which are small, legless maggots, develop through three instars over 1 to 3 weeks, voraciously feeding on soft-bodied insects like aphids. A single larva can consume up to 400 aphids. The larva then pupates, forming a teardrop-shaped pupa on the plant or in the soil. The adult fly emerges in 1 to 2 weeks. There can be five to seven generations per year, depending on the climate.

Overwintering Strategy

Overwintering can occur in the pupal stage in the soil or leaf litter, or as adults in protected locations.

Native Range

Widespread globally

Attracted By

yarrowdillfennelalyssumcilantroand other smallopen flowershoneydew

Repelled By

mintpeppermint oilclove oilcitronellamarigolds

Companion Planting

Planting flowering plants like yarrow, dill, and fennel near aphid-prone plants will attract hoverflies, which will then lay eggs. The larvae will feed on the aphids, providing natural pest control. Hoverflies are attracted to a diversity of flowering plants, so interplanting flowers and vegetables is a beneficial strategy.