Springtime Mimicry: Capturing the Common Drone Fly at Warnham Nature Reserve

On the 5th of April 2025, I spent a brilliant spring day exploring one of my favourite local spots — Warnham Nature Reserve. As the days grow warmer, the reserve is beginning to come alive with activity, from the return of bird song to the subtle buzz of early pollinators. Among them, I was lucky enough to photograph one of nature’s most convincing mimics: the Common Drone Fly (Eristalis tenax).

These little hoverflies are always a joy to spot. At first glance, many people mistake them for honeybees due to their strikingly similar appearance. This clever mimicry offers them some protection from predators, who tend to avoid bees thanks to their sting. But the Drone Fly is harmless, content to flit from flower to flower, soaking in the spring sunshine — and making for a very cooperative photo subject!

Armed with my macro setup, I managed to capture several shots of this fascinating insect as it paused briefly on leaves and blossoms. Their large eyes, fuzzy thorax, and steady hover all make for wonderful photographic opportunities — and they’re a reminder of just how much detail is waiting to be discovered if you stop and look closely.

Below are a few of my favourite images from the day. I hope they inspire you to look a little closer next time you’re out in nature — you never know what brilliant mimics might be hiding in plain sight.