Explainer

Hoverflies, Bees and Wasps: What's the Difference?

Learn how to differentiate between hoverflies, bees and wasps
Text by: Femi Benny Design by: Diviya Mehra
Updated   June 03, 2026
Text by: Femi Benny Design by: Diviya Mehra
Updated   June 03, 2026
2 min read
Learn how to differentiate between hoverflies, bees and wasps
Listen Listen to this article 15:34 min
Explainer on differences between hoverflies, bees and wasps

What is difference between hoverflies, bees and wasps?

Hoverflies belong to the Order Diptera while bees and wasps belong to the Order Hymenoptera.

Are hoverflies bees or flies?

Hoverflies are true flies.

Do hoverflies look like bees?

Yes, hoverflies mimic bees and wasps. 

About the Authors

Femi Ezhuthupallickal Benny

Femi Ezhuthupallickal Benny

Femi is a PhD student at University College London (UCL), working on the ecology and behavior of Asian giant hornets. Passionate about insects, especially wasps, she loves fieldwork in underexplored places, studying how insects interact with their environment and discovering new species while at it!