Hoverflies of Newry

Hoverflies of Newry

Hoverflies (Syrphidae) are true flies (Diptera) which are incredibly diverse. There are around 180 known species in Ireland and I have recorded 41 so far. Hoverflies are known for their mimicry (some more convincing than others) which they use to deter predation by masquerading as members of Hymenoptera (bees, wasps and ants). Hoverflies are important pollinators, and their larvae play important roles in pest control and the recycling of organic matter in soil and bodies of water.

In Newry, you can find common and widespread species such as Eristalis tenax and Episyrphus balteatus, but I have also recorded rare and/or local species such as Criorhina berberina and Volucella bombylans (pictured in the heading). In May 2023, I was very lucky to record the nationally scarce Parhelophilus consimilis in Canal Wood along Newry Towpath, foraging near a reed marsh.

Most hoverflies have a defined flight period as adults and one species in particular marks the arrival of late Summer and early Autumn: Sericomyia superbiens. S. superbiens is a beautiful ginger hoverfly which relies strongly on Devil-bit as a food source which appear towards the end of August and into September, and so too does the hoverfly. In late August I saw my first S. superbiens near Camloch Mountain flying around Devil’s-bit. These flies are found in northern and western areas where there is decent heathland, but can also be found in lowland sand dune systems which support similar botany. S. superbiens are also amazing bee mimics and these guys mimic the Common Carder Bumblebee (Bombus pascuorum).

Places to see hoverflies: any flower-rich habitat such as flood plain meadows or species-rich grasslands. Examples in Newry include Newry Greenway, Newry Towpath, Daisy Hill Woods, Derrymore Woods and Rostrevor Oakwood.

Image: common hoverfly species Episyrphus balteatus or the marmalade hoverfly