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For Insects, Spiders & Their Kin
For the United States & Canada
Photo#106970
Large wasp-like fly - Meromacrus acutus

Large wasp-like fly - Meromacrus acutus
Hoover, Jefferson County, Alabama, USA
April 28, 2007
Size: One inch long
This large fly flew in through an open door. The first impression, of course, was that it was a wasp. But right away I knew it was a fly just by the sound it made in flight. It flew slowly for a fly, but its large size slowed it down. As it bumped up against a window again and again our cats were very intrigued, but they were fooled by the colors and size and were very cautious. I took this close up picture when it paused for a breath. The wings and eyes were also a dead giveaway to its true nature. I had never seen anything like it before; of course I have seen many of the small type that immitate bees, but its size and coloring were quite surprising. It was truly at least an inch in length. I eventually just cupped it in my hands and took it outside to finish its job of pollinating our roses. Please help in its identification.

Syrphid fly
And it is a male Meromacrus acutus, of which there are already several pictures in the guide.
Greetings