Small yellow & black fly for ID help please

[Geoff F]

In my S. Devon garden today; possibly 5 mm (or there abouts).

I was photographing a sleepy Pisaura mirabilis when I noticed something small and yellowish running around on the same leaf. It wouldn't stand still and quickly flew away; so this is the best photo I could get.



I have a feeling that I have come across an image of something like this while searching for a different species; but at the moment, I don't know where to start.

Any pointers?

[Jason Green]

Evening Geoff,

It's a Swarming Fly from the Chloropidae family (based on size and general shape of thorasic markings - but not all family members have them!). A lovely-looking thing it is too!

Take care,

Jason

[Geoff F]

Thanks for that, Jason.

I have just looked through the Dipteria info site and Thaumatomyia notata does look possible, or at least the most likely.

It's a pity I couldn't have managed a closer and clearer photo. But I will keep a lookout for it now.