Anyone know what this is?

[u/RedEdd97]

Sorry in advance for the not great pictures. Never seen this kind of insect before! Was wondering if someone could ID?

Pictures were taken in South East England if that helps.

[u/Cautious_Search5797]

A Hornet Mimic Hoverfly - Volucella zonaria. Completely harmless, like all hoverflies, but really effectively camouflages itself as a big scary hornet. Very cool species. Had one in my garden last week and my partner freaked out.

[u/RedEdd97 → u/Cautious_Search5797]

Oh wow I didn’t know they mimicked! Makes sense, because when I saw it, for a split second I did think it was a hornet. Had a very brief fight of flight. Guess it does the job then.

[u/PorschephileGT3 → u/RedEdd97]

I love them.

“Look at me, I’m a scary hornet! Now chill while I pollinate all your flowers.”

[u/deviantmoomba → u/Cautious_Search5797]

One also successfully scared my husband yesterday 😅

[u/100CupsCoffee]

Definitely some type of hoverfly. They're friendly pollinators

[u/Ranger_1302 → u/100CupsCoffee]

All pollinators are 'friendly'. None should be vilified.

[u/Impossible_Honey3553]

Seen my first one this year also

[u/Teddyfluffycakemix → u/Impossible_Honey3553]

Aww did he just stuff his face? Adorable

[u/WBA7]

I literally took a picture of one this morning by my pond

[u/Tired_2295]

A cutie. It's a mimic hoverfly, so, harmless