Day 320: Hoverflies (locally referred to as "tiger flies") are a common sight in the alpine areas of western Washington. These bee mimics often suspend in mid-air, going almost nose to nose with hikers travelling through their territory. They are harmless, although the uninitiated frequently panic when coming upon a meadow thick with Rosy Spiraea (Spiraea densiflora, aka Subalpine Spiraea), one of the insects' favorite resting places. Unlike the deerflies and blackflies which are also present in alpine meadows, hoverflies do not bite. If one seems to be standing its ground six inches before your face, just take another step to send it on its way.
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