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Bombylius major (26)
meyerd Gold Star Critiquer/Gold Star Workshop Editor/Gold Note Writer [C: 519 W: 68 N: 1696] (5366)
Better known backyard visitors:

In early spring I expect the visit of at least three different species of Bee flies because of the abundantly flowering Primula elatior in the yard. The Large bee fly (Diptera; Bombyliidae; Bombylius major L.; Grosser Hummelschweber) is one of them. I show another, bigger species (B. discolor) in the workshop area. I had a third species, Systoecus sulphureus, presented before.


ID:
There is an excellent key for the Bombylids of Northern Europe on the net: http://home.hccnet.nl/mp.van.veen/bombyliidae/index.html.
For the above species you notice the dark markings and the clear borders of the markings on the wing that gives the species away. It is 12-14 mm long. Why Gonzo? Well, the snout and the juxtaposed eyeballs remind me of the Muppet character. The difference is that the bee fly never blows its acrobatic acts like Gonzo did, it is truly one of the flying wonders.
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meyerd Gold Star Critiquer/Gold Star Workshop Editor/Gold Note Writer [C: 519 W: 68 N: 1696] (5366)
Bombylius discolor
Edited by:meyerd Gold Star Critiquer/Gold Star Workshop Editor/Gold Note Writer [C: 519 W: 68 N: 1696] (5366)
Bomylius discolor on Primula elatior in my yard, today April 8, 2009.
You may notice the diffuse spots on the wings and the black abdominal tip (and underside), typical for the species.