hornet fly

Any of genus Spilomyia of hoverflies (Syrphidae), many with coloring resembling that of hornets, some of which are predators of insect pests, others nectar-feeding pollinators.

Any of the genus Asilus and allied genera of large, fierce dipterous robber flies (Asilidae) that often prey on insects larger than themselves to suck their blood, the males of which resemble hornets in coloring.