Somewhat smaller than the similiar V. zonaria and with yellow rather than chestnut markings on tergite (segment) 2 and more extensive yellow on the underside of the abdomen. It looks more wasp-like than hornet-like.

Volucella zonaria

Flower meadows, roadside verges and hedgerows.

It can be found from June to September, peaking in early August.

This species is a parasite of wasp larvae, including Hornets.

Previously found mainly around London, it has been steadily expanding its range northwards and its range now reaches a line from the Wash to the Severn, although even in this area it is quite local, and infrequent much of the time.

Increasingly frequent in our area.