Syrphid Fly - Temnostoma sp.
Family Syrphidae / Subfamily Eristalinae  / Tribe Milesiini  / Subtribe Philippimyiina / Genus Temnostoma
Live adult female fly photographed at West Chicago Prairie, DuPage County IL on June 15, 2005. Length: 20mm
The Insects of Cedar Creek reference: Temnostoma.

Vespid wasps - compare to Syrphid fly below

Jointed Wasp antennae

Wasp Mimic Syrphid Fly

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. 

 

              
 
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