Not many hoverflies have English names and even this one has a fairly recent history. Due to its long proboscis, up to 13mm, it can apparently reach the parts other hoverflies can’t, this coupled with a popular beer advert, made the name inevitable. However I think most hoverfly enthusiasts will still use its Latin name, Rhingia campestris. It is a very widespread and common hoverfly, occurring throughout the UK, especially where cows are present. The larvae breed in cow dung but the adult flies will stray widely. The orange abdomen and long snout make it one of the most recognizable hoverflies. It is easily seen in gardens and roadside verges and will often be the dominant species, feeding on a wide variety of flowers. It generally appears late May to June and then again in late August to September. This one was seen feeding on a Common Poppy alongside a field path in North Yorkshire.
Taken with a Sony A6000 and a Sony 30mm macro lens at f16, 1/200 second, ISO 400.
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