Eric spotted these tiny flies hovering among the grasses in a coastal prairie site up in Mendocino County on 11 September 2022. Although they were quite small, when they landed it was easy to appreciate the beautiful colors and patterning on their abdomens and the light reflections in their wings.
We don't have experience with this group of flies, but our best guess right now is that they are Margined Calligraphers (Toxomerus marginatus).
A couple more views:
Thanks to Eric for his excellent fly-spotting!
And super duper photography skills so can all enjoy!
ReplyDeleteEric, beautiful fotos and lovely flies!!!! Am saving and will try and draw them…..
ReplyDeleteJackie, I never knew flies could be so beautiful. Very Art Deco.
ReplyDeleteWhat a beautiful name for this handsome critter!
ReplyDeleteHi, everyone!
ReplyDeleteThanks for all of the enthusiasm for these flies!
:) Jackie
The patterning of the second fly is amazing! Even better in the profile view!
ReplyDeleteI love hoverflies. Thank you for sharing!