Diochlistus mitis

Description:

Great to find these Diochlistus mitis, handsome flower flies we had not seen before. These were flying low to the ground among low open shrubs on white sandy soil in Banksia menziesii open woodland. This environment had been burned about two years ago and the resulting shrub regrowth was coloured with flowers that provided food for the flies. On a 28 degree day the flies were very active. At times they were seen resting momentarily on the warm sand. These can be identified by the distinctive wing venation and the colourful yellow markings on the abdomens. Length around 20 mm. As far as we know these flies are rarely seen.Thanks to Xuankun Li and Chris Cohen for the identification.Photos: Jean and Fred