This hoverfly has bold yellow and black markings and gets its common name from the dark outline on the thorax which resembles the famous batman symbol. The pattern of grey spots and bars on top of the thorax, together with yellow body hairs help to identify the species.

Well wooded areas and favouring large umbel flowers and often seen at Ivy flowers in late summer.

May to October peaking July/August.

Larvae occur in rot holes or cavities of decaying leaves amongst roots at the base of trees.

Widespread and often common throughout Britain.

Common in Leicestershire and Rutland.