Colourful Tachinid Fly - Echinomyia fera (I think)

IPClark

Another new species of fly to my garden, that is, the first time I've seen one so it's new to me . Very windy day today and I almost didn't bother going outside to look. Glad I did as I spotted this very large Tachinid fly. I think it's Echinomyia fera based on searches but happy to be corrected on the ID. Initially, it flew away but it came back a minute or so later. Didn't stay still much but allowed me to fire off a bunch of shots.


This first one is very busy however it gives you a decent opportunity to see the colours and markings.

Paul Iddon

Smart body on this one Ian - and lovely showcase too.

Not seen one so brown as this here either...

Paul.

IPClark

Cheers Paul, thought it was another species of Drone Fly to start with but the manner of flight said otherwise of course. Pleased I was able to get these shots.

Lord Vetinari

Wonderful series of shots- Not sure if they have changed the naming but I know this as Tachina fera with no sign of Echinomyia fera on the diptera.info site
Brian v.

IPClark

Thanks Brian, yes you are correct. Googled and it seems Echinomyia is a very old synonym for it. It's now definitely Tachina fera

GOLDENORFE

Good series , usually see loads of these in Shropshire but not many this year

IPClark

Thanks Phil

Not seen you on the forum much at all this year.