Crotch's Bumblebee vs Mexican Cactus Fly
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Crotch's Bumblebee | Mexican Cactus Fly |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Bombus crotchii | Copestylum mexicanum |
| Order | Hymenoptera | Diptera |
| Family | Apidae | Syrphidae |
| Size | 10-16 mm | 12-18 mm |
| Habitat | Heathland | Deserts & Drylands |
| Diet | Nectar Feeders | Nectar Feeders |
| Regions | California, western USA | North America, Central America |
| Conservation | Endangered | Least Concern |
Crotch's Bumblebee
A western North American bumblebee that has declined by over 90% from its historical range. Once common in California's Central Valley. Threatened by pesticides and habitat loss.
Did You Know?
Has vanished from most of California's agricultural Central Valley where it was once the dominant bumblebee.
Mexican Cactus Fly
A large, dark hoverfly whose larvae develop in decaying cactus tissue. Adults are strong fliers visiting flowers in arid landscapes.
Did You Know?
Larvae play an important ecological role in recycling decaying cactus material.