The banded appearance is broadly similar to species like E. grossulariae, E. diaphana and Syrphus species, though it appears more orange than these in the field and has a particularly dark, shiny thorax. A closer view reveals that the antennae and anterior of the frons are orange.

This species occurs in variety of habitats. Adults like the flowers of hawthorns, roses, brambles and umbellifers.

Adults are most evident in late May and early June.

The larvae feed on aphids from a variety of broadleaved trees and shrubs.

A widespread species, most frequent in the south of England.

Status in Leicestershire and Rutland not known.