The syrphidae are famous for their bee and wasp mimickry, but this
fly goes the extra mile - it uses its front legs to mimic the
jointed wasp antennae of the Vespids. When the fly lands, it hold
its front legs up in front of its face and waves them about. The
effect is really quite convincing when you see one strike the pose.
(The fly in the photos is doing it). Also, the clouded leading edge
of the wing mimics the appearance of wasp wings. |
