Hover Fly (Toxomerus occidentalis)

These flies are quite small; about one-half inch in length. They have big eyes and a pretty pattern on their backs. They are quite common in the spring and fall. I’ve seen them on many types of flowers.

These flies are a little hard to sneak up on; I was surprised that this one allowed me to get close enough to get a photo with a macro setting.

Identificaton resource:
- Bug Guide: Toxomerus occidentalis
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