So Cute Callicera Aurata Insect

Callicera aurata: The Golden Hoverfly of the Forest Canopy
Callicera aurata is a remarkable and relatively rare species of hoverfly belonging to the family Syrphidae. Known for its striking metallic appearance and its close ecological association with ancient woodlands, C. aurata plays a quiet but crucial role in the forest ecosystem. Despite its beauty and importance, this hoverfly remains elusive to many naturalists and scientists, largely due to its specialized habitat and secretive lifestyle.
Taxonomy and Classification
Scientific Name: Callicera aurata
Family: Syrphidae
Order: Diptera
Subfamily: Eristalinae
The genus Callicera includes a small number of species known for their metallic sheen and association with old-growth trees. The species name aurata derives from Latin, meaning “golden,” aptly describing the fly’s brilliant appearance.
Appearance and Identification
Callicera aurata is often called the "golden hoverfly" due to its lustrous, metallic-golden or bronze body that shimmers in the light. Its compact body, dense golden hair, and distinctive coloring make it one of the most beautiful hoverflies in Europe.
Size: Medium-sized hoverfly, around 10–15 mm long.
Color: Metallic golden-bronze with dense golden hairs.
Wings: Transparent with a slight amber hue.
Eyes: Large and dark, typical of hoverflies.
Antennae: Short and stubby, with a distinctive style suited for identification.
Its eye-catching beauty often draws comparisons to bees or small beetles, but it is unmistakably a hoverfly upon closer examination due to its wing structure and flight behavior.
Habitat and Distribution
Callicera aurata is typically found in temperate regions of Europe, though it is considered scarce or even endangered in many countries due to its very specific habitat requirements. It is usually associated with ancient woodlands, particularly those containing old, decaying trees of oak, beech, hornbeam, or other native broadleaved species.