Insects I've observed - 298 species so far.

Here's an overview with photos to help learn how they all look and are called. Most of the time I used Google Lens to try to identify them as insects. It's pretty good, and often makes clear that it's uncertain. I would like to go through them and verify and mark those I think are correct, but I take too many new pictures and tweak my software too much to get around to that!

Bees and other insects from Switzerland:

Other insects than bees:

General: These species are not bees, but a number of kinds of flies look like bees, which helps to protect them. Oh my goodness, moths and beetles too!? (science.org says that greater mouse-eared bats buzz like hornets to keep predators, especially owls, away.)

Beetles:

General: Observed 23 kinds.

Timberman beetle / Zimmermannsbock (Acanthocinus aedilis) Timberman beetle (Acanthocinus ädilis). 2026-05-02 16:18:36 Fehraltorf Acanthocinus aedilis / Zimmermannsbock / Timberman beetle. This was the first observation.	Asian longhorned beetle / Asiatische Laubholzbockkäfer (Anoplophora glabripennis) GL says this is a longhorn beetle, but there are so many different kinds. Looks a bit like the invasive Asian longhorned beetle, Anoplophora glabripennis, but the so-called horns aren't really long enough. 2025-10-17 16:07:33 Fehraltorf Anoplophora glabripennis / Asiatische Laubholzbockkäfer, der / Asian longhorned beetle; Variant: Asian long-horned beetle. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. GL said this is probably a longhorned beetle, but I'm not convinced the "horns" are really that long, and there are so many different kinds that I haven't found anything that looks just the same, though the invasive Asian longhorned beetle is similar. This was the first observation.
Cantharis rustica / Soldatenkäfer (Cantharis rustica) Bei Wildert habe ich diesen Insekt entdeckt, und GL sagt sehr wahrscheinlich um den Soldatenkäfer (Cantharis rustica). 2026-05-12 22:37:38 Wildert Cantharis rustica / Soldatenkäfer. This was the first observation.	Golden Ground Beetle / German Goldlaufkäfer (Carabus auratus) GL days this appears to be a Golden Ground Beetle (Carabus auratus), or in German Goldlaufkäfer. 2026-04-23 11:58:13 Fehraltorf Carabus auratus / German Goldlaufkäfer / Golden Ground Beetle. This was the first observation.
Blue Mint Beetle / Himmelblauer Blattkäfer (Chrysolina coerulan) GK says likely a Blue Mint Beetle, Chrysolina coerulans. 2025-08-13 18:41:39 Klausenpass Chrysolina coerulan / Himmelblauer Blattkäfer / Blue Mint Beetle. This was the first observation.	Green tiger beetle / Feld-Sandlaufkäfer (Cicindela campestris) GL sagt ein Feld-Sandlaufkäfer, prüfen. 2025-08-13 18:42:33 Klausenpass Cicindela campestris / Feld-Sandlaufkäfer, der / Green tiger beetle. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. This was the first observation.
Curculionidae / Rüsselkäfer (Curculionidae) GL sagt ein Rüsselkäfer (Familie Curculionidae), sehr wahrscheinlich aus der Gattung der Blattrandkäfer. 2026-07-20 12:35:37 Alpweg Curculionidae / Rüsselkäfer. This was the first observation.	Halyomorpha halys / Marmorierte Baumwanze (Halyomorpha halys) GL meint sehr wahrscheinlich eine Marmorierte Baumwanze (Halyomorpha halys), aka Stinkkäfer. 2026-05-02 18:16:24 Fehraltorf Halyomorpha halys / Marmorierte Baumwanze; Variant: Stinkkäfer. This was the first observation.
Harlequin, Asian, or multicoloured Asian lady beetle / Asiatische Marienkäfer (Harmonia axyridis) GL says a ladybird larva, either the seven-spot ladybird (Coccinella septempunctata) or the invasive Asian lady beetle (Harmonia axyridis). 2026-06-03 19:14:05 Fehraltorf Harmonia axyridis / Asiatische Marienkäfer, der / Harlequin, Asian, or multicoloured Asian lady beetle. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia Wikipedia. A large lady beetle or ladybug species that is most commonly known as the harlequin, Asian, or multicoloured Asian lady beetle. See https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Harmonia_axyridis. First observed on 29 May 2016 in Fehraltorf.	Scarlet lily beetle / Lilienhähnchen (Lilioceris lilii) A cool red beetle, probably a scarlet lily beetle. 2025-04-12 12:31:40 Walensee Lilioceris lilii / Lilienhähnchen, das / Scarlet lily beetle; Variants: Scarlet lily beetle, red lily beetle,, Lily leaf beetle, red lily beetle or lily leaf beetle. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. This was the first observation.
Cockchafer / Feldmaikäfer (Melolontha melolontha) I wrote 'those weird beetles' - Google Lens says Cockchafer, also known as a May Bug or May Beetle - sounds weird enough to me! 2024-04-14 09:02:31 Pfäffikersee Melolontha melolontha / Feldmaikäfer, der / Cockchafer; Variants: Common cockchafer, Maybug, Maybeetle, or doodlebug. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. Wikipedia says 'a species of scarab beetle'.. [EN]: Wikipedia. This was the first observation.	A kind of Oberea ruficollis (Oberea ruficollis) Google Lens says this orange and black bug is a kind of longhorn beetle, possibly an elm borer (Oberea ulmicola), or Sassafras borer (Oberea ruficollis). 2024-06-14 19:22:23 Pfäffikersee Oberea ruficollis / A kind of Oberea ruficollis. Sources: [EN]: Wikipedia. This was the first observation.
A kind of Oberea ulmicola (Oberea ulmicola) Google Lens says this orange and black bug is a kind of longhorn beetle, possibly an elm borer (Oberea ulmicola), or Sassafras borer (Oberea ruficollis). 2024-06-14 19:22:23 Pfäffikersee Oberea ulmicola / A kind of Oberea ulmicola. Sources: [EN]: Wikipedia. This was the first observation.	False Blister Beetle (Oedemera) GL says this is a False Blister Beetle (genus Oedemera). 2026-06-01 09:23:54 Fehraltorf Oedemera / False Blister Beetle. This was the first observation.
Vine weevel / Gefurchter Dickmaulrüssler (Otiorhynchus) Der Insekt auf unserem Gartentisch ist laut GL ein Dickmaulrüssler (Gattung Otiorhynchus), fast sicher ein Weibchen, weil die Eier brauchen kein Männchen. Sie können nicht fliegen, klettern aber sehr gut. 2026-05-20 14:04:23 Fehraltorf Otiorhynchus / Gefurchter Dickmaulrüssler / Vine weevel. This was the first observation.	Cereal Leaf Beetle / Rothalsige Getreidehähnchen (Oulema melanopus) Rothalsige Getreidehähnchen (Oulema melanopus), auch bekannt als Cereal Leaf Beetle. 2026-03-25 11:32:05 Fehraltorf Oulema melanopus / Rothalsige Getreidehähnchen, das / Cereal Leaf Beetle. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. Seen on our kitchen window - outdoors. Wikipedia says O. melanopus consumes nearly all cereal crops, but has a strong affinity for oats, barley, and rye, and its favorite host is wheat.. This was the first observation.
Willow Leaf Beetle / Breite Weidenblattkäfer (Plagiodera versicolora) Willow Leaf Beetle according to GL, scientifically known as Plagiodera versicolora. 2025-06-27 17:13:23 Fehraltorf Plagiodera versicolora / Breite Weidenblattkäfer, der / Willow Leaf Beetle. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. This identification (by GL) is based on the following characteristics: Appearance: The beetle is small,rounded, and has a metalic sheen, typically appearing green, blue, or occasionally purple, with a black underside and legs. Confirm: Size: Adults generally measure between 2.5 to 4.5 mm.. This was the first observation.	Propylea quatuordecimpunctata / Vierzehnpunkt-Marienkäfer (Propylea quatuordecimpunctata) Vierzehnpunkt-Marienkäfer (Propylea quatuordecimpunctata). 2026-05-03 11:17:14 Fehraltorf Propylea quatuordecimpunctata / Vierzehnpunkt-Marienkäfer. This was the first observation.
Ribbed pine borer / Schrotbock (Rhagium inquisitor) GL meint ein Schrotbock (Rhagium inquisitor), der auch als Kleiner Zangenbock oder Spürender Zangenbock bekannt ist. 2026-05-01 16:11:28 Fehraltorf Rhagium inquisitor / Schrotbock / Ribbed pine borer. This was the first observation.	Seidenkäfer / Familie Scraptiidae (Seidenkäfer) GL meint ein Vertreter der Seidenkäfer (Familie Scraptiidae), sehr wahrscheinlich aus der Gattung Anaspis. 2026-05-07 15:40:56 Fehraltorf Seidenkäfer / Familie Scraptiidae. This was the first observation.
Bloody-nosed beetle / Tatzenkäfer (Timarcha tenebricosa) GL says this is a Bloody-nosed beetle (Timarcha tenebricosa). Saw it in Koblenz after the flamingos. 2025-09-13 16:11:31 Timarcha tenebricosa / Tatzenkäfer, der / Bloody-nosed beetle; Variants: blood spewer, blood-spewing beetle. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. This was the first observation.	Elm-leaf beetle (Xanthogaleruca luteola) GL says Xanthogaleruca luteola, commonly known as the elm-leaf beetle, here in Caderousse. 2026-06-16 14:00:24 Provence Xanthogaleruca luteola / Elm-leaf beetle. Seen in Caderousse. This was the first observation.
Ödemera lurida / Matte Scheinbockkäfer (Ödemera lurida) Eventuell ein Matte Scheinbockkäfer (Ödemera lurida). 2026-06-01 09:23:54 Fehraltorf Ödemera lurida / Matte Scheinbockkäfer. This was the first observation.

Dragonflies:

General: Observed 25 kinds.
The excellent web site libellenwissen.de/artenliste/libellenarten-schweiz says that of the 6350 kinds of dragonflies in the world, 120-140 (or more) in Europe, and 85 species of 9 different families of those are found in Switzerland. libellenschutz.ch has excellent information about Swiss dragon- and damselflies, whereas libellen.tv has a wonderful way to identify them via their colors.

Blue-eye hawker dragonfly / Südliche Mosaikjungfer (Aeshna affinis) Insects - looks like another that Google Lens said was a Blue-eye hawker dragonfly, Aeshna affinis. 2024-08-24 18:59:41 Aeshna affinis / Südliche Mosaikjungfer, die / Blue-eye hawker dragonfly; Variants: Southern migrant hawker, Blue-eyed hawker. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. This was the first observation.	Southern hawker / Blaugrüne Mosaikjungfer (Aeshna cyanea) GL hat gesagt ein Männchen der Blaugrünen Mosaikjungfer (Aeshna cyanea) am Schwimmbad Schwändi. 2026-08-29 15:11:27 Schwändi Aeshna cyanea / Blaugrüne Mosaikjungfer, die; Variant: Blaugrüne Mosaikjungfer / Southern hawker; Variant: Blue hawker. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia 🐉 (DE). [EN]: Wikipedia. This was the first observation.
Aeshna isoceles / Keilfleck-Mosaikjungfer (Aeshna isoceles) Selber identifiziert als eine Keilfleck-Mosaikjungfer (Aeshna isoceles), und GL meint das auch. 2026-06-24 07:32:53 Fehraltorf Aeshna isoceles / Keilfleck-Mosaikjungfer. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia 🐉 (DE). [EN]: Wikipedia. This was the first observation.	Common hawker / Torf-Mosaikjungfer (Aeshna juncea) I identified this myself - clearly a male Mosaikjungfer with green and blue but blue side dots all the way up - now I think Aeshna juncea, Torf-Mosaikjungfer. Unfortunately it was injured and couldn't fly. 2025-09-19 16:27:48 Aeshna juncea / Torf-Mosaikjungfer, die / Common hawker; Variants: Common hawker, moorland hawker, Sedge darner. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia 🐉 (DE). [EN]: Wikipedia. Cool looking dragonfly - it has blue spots on each side of the long body and is green near the wings. This kind has been seen up to 2800m! The Mosaikjungfer are hard to distinguish, the males are all blue, but the detailed designs of blue and green parts differ.. This was the first observation.
Banded demoiselle / Gebänderte Prachtlibelle (Calopteryx splendens) Google Lens says Banded demoiselle, Calopteryx splendens. 2025-07-17 12:23:35 Kaltbrunner-Riet Calopteryx splendens / Gebänderte Prachtlibelle, die / Banded demoiselle. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia 🐉 (DE) 🐉 (CH). [EN]: Wikipedia. This was the first observation.	Beautiful demoiselle / Blauflügel-Prachtlibelle (Calopteryx virgo) In unserem Garten ein Männchen der Blauflügel-Prachtlibelle (Calopteryx virgo). 2026-07-02 10:52:40 Fehraltorf Calopteryx virgo / Blauflügel-Prachtlibelle, die / Beautiful demoiselle. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia 🐉 (DE). [EN]: Wikipedia. First observed on 25 May 2026 in Fanel/Chablais de Cudrefin und La Sauge.
Willow emerald damselfly / Weidenjungfer (Chalcolestes_viridis) GL meint ein Weidenjungfer (Chalcolestes viridis). 2025-09-03 16:56:35 Chalcolestes_viridis / Weidenjungfer, die; Variants: Weidenjungfer auch Gemeine Weidenjungfer, Gemeine Wiedenjungfer / Willow emerald damselfly; Variants: green emerald damselfly, western willow spreadwing. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. There are two similar kinds, but ornitho.ch only has the western species. I learned that damselflies normally close their wings when they land...but these don't, which I can also confirm in the photos. These are mostly present August to October. This was the first observation.	Azure damselfly / Hufeisen-Azurjungfer (Coenagrion puella) Teil S2 ist entscheidend, hier könnte es das U-Zeichnung vom Hufeisen-Azurjungfer, cönagrion puella sein. 2025-07-19 13:49:39 Tösstal Coenagrion puella / Hufeisen-Azurjungfer, die / Azure damselfly. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia 🐉 (DE) 🐉 (CH). [EN]: Wikipedia. This was the first observation.
Variable damselfly / Fledermaus-Azurjungfer (Coenagrion pulchellum) Eventuell Fledermaus-Azurjungfer Männchen mit viel Schwarz bei S6-7. 2026-05-02 18:16:26 Fehraltorf Coenagrion pulchellum / Fledermaus-Azurjungfer, die / Variable damselfly; Variant: Variable bluet. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia 🐉 (DE) 🐉 (CH). [EN]: Wikipedia. This was the first observation.	Golden-ringed dragonfly / zweigestreifte Quelljungfer (Cordulegaster boltonii) Google Lens thinks this is a Cordulegaster boltonii, or zweigestreifte Quelljungfer, in English a Golden-ringed dragonfly. 2025-06-29 15:44:35 Fehraltorf Cordulegaster boltonii / zweigestreifte Quelljungfer, die / Golden-ringed dragonfly. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia 🐉 (DE). [EN]: Wikipedia. This was the first observation.
Downy emerald / Falkenlibelle (Cordulia aenea) GL meint Falkenlibelle, was ab April erscheint und andere Leute in Kanton Zürich gesehen haben. 2026-05-02 18:16:28 Fehraltorf Cordulia aenea / Falkenlibelle, die / Downy emerald. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia 🐉 (DE). [EN]: Wikipedia. This was the first observation.	Blue Damselfly / Gemeine Becherjungfer (Enallagma cyathigerum) TBI, maybe Blue Damselfly, Enallagma cyathigerum. 2025-07-19 13:50:29 Enallagma cyathigerum / Gemeine Becherjungfer, die / Blue Damselfly. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia 🐉 (DE) 🐉 (CH). [EN]: Wikipedia. This was the first observation.
Gomphus vulgatissimus / Gemeine Keiljungfer (Gomphus vulgatissimus) Bei LaSauge die Gemeine Keiljungfer (Gomphus vulgatissimus). 2026-05-23 15:40:31 Fanel/Chablais de Cudrefin und La Sauge Gomphus vulgatissimus / Gemeine Keiljungfer, die. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia 🐉 (DE). [EN]: Wikipedia. First observed on 23 May 2026 in Fanel/Chablais de Cudrefin und La Sauge.	Blue-tailed damselfly / Grosse Pechlibelle (Ischnura elegans) Grosse Pechlibelle oder das elegante Ischnura elegans at Wildert, komischerweise kleiner als die grosse Art von Libelle. 2025-08-05 16:58:46 Source: OTHER 20250805_165846 Grosse Pechlibelle oder das elegante Ischnura elegans at Wildert, komischerweise kleiner als die grosse Art von Libelle.jpg Wildert Ischnura elegans / Grosse Pechlibelle, die; Variant: Große Pechlibelle / Blue-tailed damselfly; Variant: Common bluetail. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia 🐉 (DE) 🐉 (CH). [EN]: Wikipedia. This was the first observation.
Broad-bodied chaser / Plattbauch (Libellula depressa) GL sagt, das ist ein männlicher Plattbauch (Libellula depressa). 2026-05-25 15:39:12 Fanel/Chablais de Cudrefin und La Sauge Libellula depressa / Plattbauch, der / Broad-bodied chaser; Variant: Broad-bodied darter. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia 🐉 (DE). [EN]: Wikipedia. This was the first observation.	Scarce chaser / Spitzenfleck (Libellula fulva) GL meint ein Spitzenfleck (Libelulla fulva), wahrscheinlich korrekt, ein Männchen. 2026-06-23 12:23:23 Wald Fehraltorf Libellula fulva / Spitzenfleck, der / Scarce chaser. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia 🐉 (DE). [EN]: Wikipedia. This was the first observation.
Libellula quadrimaculata / Vierfleck (Libellula quadrimaculata) In Wildert eine Vierfleck-Libelle (Libellula quadrimaculata), auf jedem Flügelpaar 4 Flecken. 2026-06-24 07:44:41 Wildert Libellula quadrimaculata / Vierfleck, der. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia 🐉 (DE). [EN]: Wikipedia. This was the first observation.	Black-tailed skimmer / Grosser Blaupfeil (Orthetrum cancellatum) Dragonfly by Maggia, could be a black-tailed skimmer aka Grosse Blaupfeil. 2025-07-31 13:56:38 Orthetrum cancellatum / Grosser Blaupfeil, der; Variant: Große Blaupfeil / Black-tailed skimmer. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia 🐉 (DE). [EN]: Wikipedia. This was the first observation.
Keeled skimmer / Kleiner Blaupfeil (Orthetrum coerulescens) Neue Libellen-Art in Wildert gesehen. Ich habe es vorlaeufig aus meinem Buch Libellen der Schweiz identifiziert als Kleiner Blaupfeil oder Orthetrum coerulescens, und Google Lens zeigt das gleiche. 2025-07-23 17:52:23 Wildert Orthetrum coerulescens / Kleiner Blaupfeil, der; Variant: Kleine Blaupfeil / Keeled skimmer. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia 🐉 (DE). Beobachtet in Wildert, Weibchen sind gelb, Männchen blau, und ich bin überrascht dass es heisst diese ist die kleinste Blaupfeil - so klein war es nicht!. [EN]: Wikipedia. This was the first observation.	White-legged damselfly / Blaue Federlibelle (Platycnemis pennipes) GL meint eine Blaue Federlibelle (Platycnemis pennipes), genauer gesagt um ein helles Jungtier oder Weibchen. 2026-07-15 13:27:15 Platycnemis pennipes / Blaue Federlibelle, die / White-legged damselfly; Variant: Blue featherleg. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia 🐉 (DE) 🐉 (CH). [EN]: Wikipedia. First observed on 24 June 2026 in Fehraltorf.
Large red damselfly / Zygoptera (Pyrrhosoma nymphula) Frühe Adonislibelle Männchen bei Wildert. 2026-05-02 18:16:29 Wildert Pyrrhosoma nymphula / Zygoptera, die; Variant: Frühe Adonislibelle / Large red damselfly. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia 🐉 (DE) 🐉 (CH). [EN]: Wikipedia. First observed on 19 July 2025 in Tösstal.	Red-veined darter / Frühe Heidelibelle (Sympetrum fonscolombii) Frühe Heidelibelle bei Wildert. Sie sehen sehr ähnlich aus wie die Blutroten aber das Gelbe an den Flügeln ist eher die Frühe. 2025-08-30 16:42:47 Wildert Sympetrum fonscolombii / Frühe Heidelibelle, die / Red-veined darter; Variant: Nomad. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia 🐉 (DE). [EN]: Wikipedia. First observed on 18 August 2025 in Fehraltorf.
Southern darter / Südliche Heidelibelle (Sympetrum meridionale) GL meint eine Herbst-Heidelibelle (Sympetrum meridionale), beim Greifensee. 2025-09-15 23:49:01 Greifensee Sympetrum meridionale / Südliche Heidelibelle, die / Southern darter. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia 🐉 (DE). [EN]: Wikipedia. This was the first observation.	Ruddy darter / Blutrote Heidelibelle (Sympetrum sanguineum) Blutrote Heidelibelle (Sympetrum sanguineum). 2025-09-03 16:54:13 Sympetrum sanguineum / Blutrote Heidelibelle, die / Ruddy darter. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia 🐉 (DE). Seen at Lützelsee. [EN]: Wikipedia. First observed on 05 August 2024 by the Lützelsee.
Damselfly (Zygoptera) A kind of damselfly at Wildert. 2026-07-15 14:01:15 Wildert Zygoptera / Damselfly; Variant: Damselflies. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. These are the smaller, thinner dragonflies. First observed on 05 August 2024 by the Lützelsee.

Grasshoppers:

General: Data about grasshoppers of Switzerland can be found at GBIF, (Global Biodiversity Information Facility), unfortunately without photos.Crickets of Switzerland are listed on this Canadian webpage, including English names and photos with locations.

Italian locust / Italienische Schönschrecke (Calliptamus italicus)

Calliptamus italicus / Italienische Schönschrecke, die / Italian locust. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. Seen for the first time between Levanto and Bonassola. This was the first observation.

Speckled Bush-Cricket / Punktierte Zartschrecke (Leptophyes punctatissima)

Leptophyes punctatissima / Punktierte Zartschrecke, die / Speckled Bush-Cricket. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. This was the first observation.

Wood cricket / Waldgrille (Nemobius sylvestris)

Nemobius sylvestris / Waldgrille, die / Wood cricket. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. Hmm, was the Halloween 2025 photo my first cricket picture?. This was the first observation.

Tettigonia viridissima / Grünes Heupferd (Tettigonia viridissima)

Tettigonia viridissima / Grünes Heupferd. This was the first observation.

Flies:

General: Observed 44 kinds.
I was surprised how many of the bees in our garden are actually flies. The difference between German and English is confusing, as 'true flies' are an order containing more than 150,000 species including mosquitoes - not what we'd call flies. The family Muscidae includes 4,000 species, including the housefly, 500 of which live in central Europe.

Large Bee-fly / Wollschweber (Bombylius major) Most likely a Black Bee Fly (Anthrax georgicus) bei Oppède in Frankreich. 2026-06-09 21:07:39 Provence Bombylius major / Wollschweber / Large Bee-fly. First observed on 17 April 2026 in Switzerland.	Calliphora / Blaue Schmeissfliege (Calliphora) GL sagt Blaue Schmeissfliege (Gattung Calliphora). 2026-05-04 09:56:33 Fehraltorf Calliphora / Blaue Schmeissfliege. This was the first observation.
Chalcosyrphus nemorum / Kurze Langbauchschwebfliege (Chalcosyrphus nemorum) GL sieht wahrscheinlich eine Kurze Langbauchschwebfliege (Chalcosyrphus nemorum), hier bei Wildert. 2026-07-16 20:45:56 Wildert Chalcosyrphus nemorum / Kurze Langbauchschwebfliege. This was the first observation.	Chrysotoxum cautum / Gemeine Wespenschwebfliege (Chrysotoxum cautum) Perfekt getarnt als Wespe, wenn nur die Flügel nicht so typisch für Fliegen wären. Höchstwahrscheinlich eine Gemeine Wespenschwebfliege (Chrysotoxum cautum). 2026-06-22 08:55:43 Fehraltorf Chrysotoxum cautum / Gemeine Wespenschwebfliege. Perfekt getarnt als Wespe, wenn nur die Flügel nicht so typisch für Fliegen wären. This was the first observation.
A kind of Clogmia albipunctata / Abflussfliege (Clogmia albipunctata) GL meint eine Schmetterlingsmücke (Familie Psychodidae), eventuell eine Abflussfliege (Clogmia albipunctata).ä. 2025-09-30 17:23:57 Fehraltorf Clogmia albipunctata / Abflussfliege; Variant: Familie der / A kind of Clogmia albipunctata; Variants: bathroom moth midge, bathroom moth fly, drain fly. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. Google Lens hat gesagt, ich hätte sicher eine Schmetterlingsmücke (Familie Psychodidae), die genaue Art war nicht sicher, aber es sieht auf jeden Fall sehr ähnlich aus. Auf Deutsch ist dies eine Art Mücke, ein Zweiflügler, auf Englisch teilweise nur flies genannt, darum sage ich das hier. [EN]: Wikipedia. This was the first observation.	Fruit fly / Schwarzbäuchige Fruchtfliege (Drosophila melanogaster) Fruit fly, didn't know they could be orange. 2025-07-22 18:20:36 Fehraltorf Drosophila melanogaster / Schwarzbäuchige Fruchtfliege / Fruit fly. Den deutschen Namen hier gibt's erst seit 1960. This was the first observation.
Drosophila suzukii / Kirschessigfliege (Drosophila suzukii) GL sagt eine Kirschessigfliege (Drosophila suzukii), eine Art Fruchtfliege. 2025-08-30 11:10:10 Fehraltorf Drosophila suzukii / Kirschessigfliege. This was the first observation.	Empis tessellata / Gewürfelte Tanzfliege (Empis tessellata) Wahrscheinlich um eine Gewürfelte Tanzfliege (Empis tessellata). 2026-05-22 08:41:41 Fehraltorf Empis tessellata / Gewürfelte Tanzfliege. First observed on 25 April 2026 in Fehraltorf.
Shore fly (Ephydridae) GL says a fly, possibly from the family Ephydridae, commonly known as shore flies. 2025-08-13 11:38:13 Klausenpass Ephydridae / Shore fly. This was the first observation.	Marmalade hoverfly / Hainschwebfliege (Episyrphus balteatus) On the right there may be a Marmeladen-Schwebfliege ( Episyrphus balteatus ). 2025-08-07 09:00:07 Fehraltorf Episyrphus balteatus / Hainschwebfliege; Variant: Marmeladen-Schwebfliege / Marmalade hoverfly. Sources: [EN]: Wikipedia. Wikpedia says this kind is the most abundant native hoverfly in Central Europe. This was the first observation.
European Drone Fly / Kleine Keilfleckschwebfliege (Eristalis arbustorum) GL sagt wahrscheinlich eine Mistbiene (Eristalis tenax) oder eine Buschschwebfliege (Eristalis arbustorum). 2025-08-07 12:10:46 Fehraltorf Eristalis arbustorum / Kleine Keilfleckschwebfliege, die / European Drone Fly. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. First observed on 03 August 2025 in Fehraltorf.	Tapered Drone Fly / Gemeine Keilfleckschwebfliege (Eristalis pertinax) GL says this is likely a hoverfly, specifically a species from the genus Eristalis, such as the Tapered Drone Fly (Eristalis pertinax) or the European Drone Fly (Eristalis arbustorum). How many kinds have the black hourglass. 2025-08-03 13:51:14 Fehraltorf Eristalis pertinax / Gemeine Keilfleckschwebfliege / Tapered Drone Fly. Sources: [EN]: Wikipedia. This was the first observation.
Common drone fly / Mistbiene (Eristalis tenax) Drone Fly (Eristalis tenax), also known as the Common Drone Fly or Mistbiene. 2025-08-05 13:18:20 Fehraltorf Eristalis tenax / Mistbiene, die; Variants: Mistbiene, Schlammbiene, Drohnenfliege, Scheinbienen-Keilfleckschwebfliege, Schlammbiene / Common drone fly. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. General: Drone flies are a type of hoverfly (there are around 460 kinds!), belonging to genus Eristalis within the family Syrphidae (hoverflies) and order Diptera (true flies). a kind of Drone Fly. First observed on 03 August 2025 in Fehraltorf.	Exorista larvarum (Exorista larvarum) GL sayslikely a species of Tachinid fly, specifically resembling Linnaemyia picta or Exorista larvarum. Note the stripes. 2025-08-03 13:46:45 Fehraltorf Exorista larvarum. Sources: [EN]: Wikipedia. General: A kind of Tachinid fly A kind of Tachinid fly or German Raupenfliege. Note the stripes.. This was the first observation.
Family Syrphidae / Schwebfliege (Family Syrphidae) GL meint eine Schwebfliege. 2025-07-06 13:23:24 Fehraltorf Family Syrphidae / Schwebfliege; Variants: Stehfliege, Schwirrfliege. First observed on 26 June 2025 in Fehraltorf.	Horsefly (Family Tabanidae) GL says this insect on the bench in our back yard is a horsefly (family Tabanidae). 2026-03-04 14:22:22 Family Tabanidae / Horsefly. flies. This was the first observation.
Long-horned caddisfly (Family leptoceridae) Google Lens suggests, convincingly, that this is a Longhorned caddisfly, family Leptoceridae. 2025-07-17 12:25:37 Kaltbrunner-Riet Family leptoceridae / Long-horned caddisfly; Variant: silverhorn. Identifying which species is hopeless - there are said to be 1850 in 68 genera - how does nature manage this?:flies. This was the first observation.	Sun Fly / Gemeine Sumpfschwebfliege (Helophilus pendulus) GL says a type of hoverfly, specifically resembling a species within the genus Helophilus, such as Helophilus trivittatus (the Large Tiger Hoverfly) or Helophilus pendulus (the Sun Fly). 2025-07-31 10:06:47 Helophilus pendulus / Gemeine Sumpfschwebfliege, die / Sun Fly. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. This was the first observation.
Large Tiger Hoverfly / Große Sumpfschwebfliege (Helophilus trivittatus) GL says a type of hoverfly, specifically resembling a species within the genus Helophilus, such as Helophilus trivittatus (the Large Tiger Hoverfly) or Helophilus pendulus (the Sun Fly). 2025-07-31 10:06:47 Helophilus trivittatus / Große Sumpfschwebfliege, die / Large Tiger Hoverfly; Variant: A kind of Helophilus trivittatus. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. This was the first observation.	Black soldier fly / Schwarze Soldatenfliege (Hermetia illucens) GL says this is of the family Stratiomyidae, commonly known as a soldier fly, potentially a black soldier fly (Hermetia illucens). 2026-06-01 10:23:29 Fehraltorf Hermetia illucens / Schwarze Soldatenfliege; Variant: Familie der / Black soldier fly. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. First observed on 25 June 2025 in Fehraltorf.
Linnaemyia picta (Linnaemyia picta) GL sayslikely a species of Tachinid fly, specifically resembling Linnaemyia picta or Exorista larvarum. Note the stripes. 2025-08-03 13:46:45 Fehraltorf Linnaemyia picta. A kind of Tachinid fly. This was the first observation.	Common Greenbottle Fly / Goldfliege (Lucilia caesar) It's almost impossible to identify these blow flies, but it looks to me like a Lucilia caesar or common greenbottle fly. 2025-10-21 13:24:00 Walensee Lucilia caesar / Goldfliege / Common Greenbottle Fly. Sources: [EN]: Wikipedia. GL said it could also be a Greenbottle Fly (Lucilia illustris), and other species look quite similar, but this looked like the best match to me. This was the first observation.
Spotted lanternfly / Gepunktete Laternenträgerzikade (Lycorma delicatula) Background - Insects - Spotted lanternfly on the Skyline Drive - never heard of them before. 2024-09-28 18:50:28 Shenandoah National Park Lycorma delicatula / Gepunktete Laternenträgerzikade, die / Spotted lanternfly. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. Seen on the Skyline Drive - never heard of them before. This was the first observation.	Ladder-backed hoverfly / Matte Schwarzkopfschwebfliege (Melanostoma scalare) A type of hoverfly, and the yellow-black stripes match the Melanostoma scalare (Ladder-backed Hover Fly). 2025-08-03 17:14:39 Fehraltorf Melanostoma scalare / Matte Schwarzkopfschwebfliege, die / Ladder-backed hoverfly; Variants: Chequered hoverfly, Ladder-backed hover fly. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. Web pages describe the yellow shapes, whereas I was looking at the black parts and seeing a capital W or a flying bird. I saw a female, as Wikipedia says 'yellow markings of the male are roundish or diamond-shaped, while those of the female are triangular patches'. This was the first observation.
Narcissus Bulb Fly (Merodon equestris) GL says, without doubt this time, that this is a Narcissus Bulb Fly (Merodon equestris), a species of hoverfly (Family Syrphidae). 2026-05-17 16:56:17 Alpweg Merodon equestris / Narcissus Bulb Fly. This was the first observation.	Noon fly / Rinderfliege (Mesembrina meridiana) GL says this is a noon fly, Mesembrina meridiana. 2025-10-15 13:36:27 Mesembrina meridiana / Rinderfliege, die; Variant: Mittagsfliege / Noon fly. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. A fly with wings that are red near the body, seen at Wildert in October 2025 for the first time. This was the first observation.
Housefly / Stubenfliege (Musca domestica) Stubenfliege (Musca domestica), auf dem Tisch im Garten. 2025-07-06 13:44:56 Fehraltorf Musca domestica / Stubenfliege / Housefly. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. This was the first observation.	Panorpa communis / Gemeine Skorpionsfliege (Panorpa communis) GL meint eine Skorpionsfliege (Gattung Panorpa), sehr wahrscheinlich um die Gemeine Skorpionsfliege (Panorpa communis). 2026-06-28 06:56:09 Panorpa communis / Gemeine Skorpionsfliege. This was the first observation.
Speckled wood (Pararge aegeria) GL says a Speckled Wood (Pararge aegeria). 2025-10-10 15:28:49 Levanto Pararge aegeria / Speckled wood. Sources: [EN]: Wikipedia. This was the first observation.	Flesh fly / Ein Art der echten Fliegen (Phaonia subventa) GL says a flesh fly, belonging to the family Sarcophagidae and the genus Sarcophaga, most likely a common flesh fly (Sarcophaga carnaria). 2026-04-19 12:18:45 Phaonia subventa / Ein Art der echten Fliegen / Flesh fly; Variants: A kind of Phaonia subventa, Muscid fly. Sources: [EN]: Wikipedia. Similar to a housefly, but the rear half is reddish, the eyes are separated by a black and gray part. This was the first observation.
Yellow-spotted Sedge (Philopotamus montanus) Google Lens suggests, convincingly, that this is a Longhorned caddisfly, family Leptoceridae. 2025-07-17 12:25:37 Kaltbrunner-Riet Philopotamus montanus / Yellow-spotted Sedge; Variant: caddisfly. This was the first observation.	Scuttle fly (Phoridae) GL says this is likely a scuttle fly, also known as a hump-backed fly, from the family Phoridae. 2025-10-18 09:36:57 Fehraltorf Phoridae / Scuttle fly; Variant: hump-backed fly. GL says it looks like a scuttle fly, but I think identifying it is impossible. This was the first observation.
Cluster fly / Gemeine Wurmfliege (Pollenia rudis) GL says a cluster fly (Pollenia rudis) on our house. 2026-03-05 12:24:43 Pollenia rudis / Gemeine Wurmfliege; Variant: Graugelbe Polsterfliege / Cluster fly; Variant: Common cluster fly. Sources: [EN]: Wikipedia. Seen February 2026 on out house. First observed on 26 February 2026 in Fehraltorf.	Drain fly (Psychodidae) GL says a drain fly (family Psychodidae), also commonly known as a moth fly, sink fly, or bathroom moth midge. 2026-04-23 08:29:34 Fehraltorf Psychodidae / Drain fly; Variants: moth fly, sink fly, bathroom moth midge. First observed on 30 September 2025 in Fehraltorf.
Downlooker Snipefly (Rhagio scolopaceus) GL says it's a snipe fly (family Rhagionidae), most likely the Downlooker Snipefly (Rhagio scolopaceus). 2026-05-04 17:04:56 Fehraltorf Rhagio scolopaceus / Downlooker Snipefly. First observed on 30 April 2026 in Fehraltorf.	Common Snout-hoverfly / Gemeine Schnauzenschwebfliege (Rhingia campestris) GL says a Common Snout-hoverfly, specifically Rhingia campestris, also known as the Heineken fly, auf Deutsch Gemeine Schnauzenschwebfliege. 2025-09-12 13:43:48 Fehraltorf Rhingia campestris / Gemeine Schnauzenschwebfliege / Common Snout-hoverfly; Variant: Heineken fly. Seen in my rock garden for the first time in September, 2025. This was the first observation.
Common flesh fly / Graue Fleischfliege (Sarcophaga carnaria) GL meint eine Graue Fleischfliege (Sarcophaga carnaria), auch als Gemeine Fleischfliege oder Aasfliege bekannt. 2026-05-10 08:01:23 Fehraltorf Sarcophaga carnaria / Graue Fleischfliege, die / Common flesh fly. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. Of course there are other kinds of flesh flies, and I'll never know for sure which kind it was. Oxford English Dictionary says "The term flesh fly refers to insects in the family Sarcophagidae, derived from their larvae's (maggots) habit of feeding on decaying flesh, carrion, and manure.". First observed on 21 October 2025 in Walensee.	Long hoverfly / Gewöhnliche Langbauchschwebfliege (Sphaerophoria scripta) The one on the left could be a Sphaerophoria scripta, or long hoverfly. 2025-08-07 12:22:13 Fehraltorf Sphaerophoria scripta / Gewöhnliche Langbauchschwebfliege, die / Long hoverfly. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. This was the first observation.
Thick-legged hoverfly / Kleine Mistbiene (Syritta pipiens) Probably a thick-legged hoverfly, syritta pipiens. 2024-06-16 13:41:33 Fehraltorf Syritta pipiens / Kleine Mistbiene, die / Thick-legged hoverfly. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. One of the most common species in the insect family Syrphidae. This fly originates from Europe and is currently distributed across Eurasia and North America. They are fast and nimble fliers.. This was the first observation.	Hoverfly (Syrphidae) Probably a kind of hoverfly, also called flower flies or syrphids, make up the insect family Syrphidae. 2025-06-26 11:19:40 Fehraltorf Syrphidae / Hoverfly. This was the first observation.
Common Flower Fly / Große Schwebfliege (Syrphus ribesii) Close-up of a Common Flower Fly or Syrphus ribesii. 2025-10-31 14:30:13 Wildert Syrphus ribesii / Große Schwebfliege, die / Common Flower Fly. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. The first one I saw seemed to like sitting on my telephoto lens!. First observed on 31 October 2025 in Wildert.	Tipula maxima / Riesenschnake (Tipula maxima) GL says a Crane Fly, a member of the Tipulidae family, with wings and large size likely Tipula maxima (Riesenschnake), one of the largest crane fly species in Switzerland. 2026-04-26 19:18:42 Switzerland Tipula maxima / Riesenschnake. This was the first observation.
Winter gnat / Wintermücke (Triochera annulata) Winter gnat, probably Triochera annulata, seen before our front door. 2026-04-15 12:15:52 Fehraltorf Triochera annulata / Wintermuecke / Winter gnat; Variant: Winter crane flies. Wikipedia says long, thin, delicate insects seen in fall, spring, and sometimes winter. This was the first observation.	Hornet mimic hoverfly / Hornissenschwebfliege (Volucella zonaria) Hornissenschwebfliege - also doch keine Biene! 2025-06-23 18:30:55 Fehraltorf Volucella zonaria / Hornissenschwebfliege, die / Hornet mimic hoverfly. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. This was the first observation.

Aphids:

General: Observed 1 kinds.

Brown citrus aphid (Toxoptera citricidus)

Toxoptera citricidus / Brown citrus aphid. My sighting could also be an Uroleucon species, both of which are shiny black in adult form. This was the first observation.

Butterflies:

General: Observed 71 kinds.
In Switzerland there are hundreds of species of butterflies. The book I bought years ago (Schmetterlinge by Roland Gerstmeier, published by Kosmos) covers about 100 of them. nationalpark.ch says there are 3,700 kinds! The excellent pieris.ch web site has much information in German about 211 species. The butterfly symbol, 🦋, when used here has links to many more details on those pages.

European peacock, / Tagpfauenauge (Aglais io) Tagpfauenauge oder Aglais io, formerly inachis io in unserem Garten. 2025-07-15 14:22:47 Aglais io / Tagpfauenauge, das / European peacock,; Variant: The peacock butterfly. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia 🦋. [EN]: Wikipedia. Previously Inachis io. Wikipedia says: Io is a figure in Greek mythology. She was a priestess of Hera in Argos.. This was the first observation.	Small tortoiseshell / Kleine Fuchs (Aglais urticae) Insects - Beautiful orange butterfly by Etna may be a Kleiner Fuchs aka Small tortoiseshell, Aglais urticae. 2025-06-01 12:45:33 Etna Aglais urticae / Kleine Fuchs, der / Small tortoiseshell. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia 🦋. [EN]: Wikipedia. First observed on 01 June 2025 in Etna.
A kind of Agriphila selasella (Agriphila selasella) GL sagt wahrscheinlich eine Zünslerart, höchstwahrscheinlich eine Agriphila selasella. 2025-08-18 19:24:26 Fehraltorf Agriphila selasella / A kind of Agriphila selasella. Sources: [EN]: Wikipedia. This was the first observation.	Orange tip / Aurorafalter (Anthocharis cardamines) GL says a male Orange-tip (Anthocharis cardamines), known as the Aurorafalter in German. 2026-04-22 19:54:31 Fehraltorf Anthocharis cardamines / Aurorafalter, der / Orange tip. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia 🦋. [EN]: Wikipedia. This was the first observation.
Ringlet / Braune Waldvogel (Aphantopus hyperantus) TBI, wahrscheinlich Braune Waldvogel. 2025-08-16 16:38:21 Fehraltorf Aphantopus hyperantus / Braune Waldvogel, der / Ringlet. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia 🦋. Nach Wikpedia eine Art Tagefalter. Und ist es nicht lustig, wenn ein Schmetterling-Name 'Vogel' beinhaltet. [EN]: Wikipedia. First observed on 03 August 2025 in Fehraltorf.	Argynnis / Perlmuttfalter group (Argynnis) TBI GL meint einen Perlmuttfalter (Gattung Argynnis oder Speyeria Fabriciana). 2026-08-09 15:26:33 Engadin Argynnis / Perlmuttfalter group. First observed on 18 July 2025.
High brown fritillary / Märzveilchenfalter (Argynnis adippe) Argynnis adippe aka Fabriciana adippe, High brown fritillary, Feurige Perlmuttfalter in Wikipedia, Märzveilchenfalter im Gerstmeier book. 2026-06-25 14:57:52 Source: WIKIPEDIA 20260625_145752-4B2A2632 (1) Argynnis adippe aka Fabriciana adippe, High brown fritillary, Feurige Perlmuttfalter in Wikipedia, Märzveilchenfalter im Gerstmeier book.JPG Argynnis adippe / Märzveilchenfalter; Variant: Feurige Perlmuttfalter / High brown fritillary. Scientific variant is Fabriciana adippe. This was the first observation.	Silver-washed fritillary / Kaisermantel (Argynnis paphia) Kaisermantel. 2025-08-06 12:16:53 Fehraltorf Argynnis paphia / Kaisermantel, der / Silver-washed fritillary. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia 🦋. [EN]: Wikipedia. First observed on 18 July 2025.
Brown argus / Kleine Sonnenröschen-Bläuling (Aricia agestis) GL says this is a Southern Brown Argus (Aricia cramera)in Retiro park in Madrid. 2026-07-08 12:19:29 Madrid Aricia agestis / Kleine Sonnenröschen-Bläuling, der / Brown argus. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia 🦋. [EN]: Wikipedia. First observed on 29 May 2026 in Fehraltorf.	Silver Y (Autographa gamma) GL says this is a Silver Y moth (Autographa gamma), easily identified by the silvery, Greek letter gamma (or Y-shaped) mark on its forewing. 2026-08-03 22:58:16 Fehraltorf Autographa gamma / Silver Y. GL says easily identified by the silvery, Greek letter gamma (or Y-shaped) mark on its forewing.. This was the first observation.
Shepherd's fritillary / Alpenmatten-Perlmuttfalter (Boloria pales) GL says this is a Boloria pales butterfly, also known as the shepherd's fritillary. 2026-08-08 12:55:57 Engadin Boloria pales / Alpenmatten-Perlmuttfalter, der / Shepherd's fritillary. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia 🦋. [EN]: Wikipedia. This was the first observation.	Lesser marbled fritillary / Mädesüß-Perlmuttfalter (Brenthis ino) TBI GL meint einen Perlmuttfalter (Gattung Argynnis oder Speyeria Fabriciana). 2026-08-09 15:26:33 Engadin Brenthis ino / Mädesüß-Perlmuttfalter, der / Lesser marbled fritillary. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia 🦋. [EN]: Wikipedia. First observed on 28 June 2026.
Mediterranean demoiselle (Calopteryx hämorrhoidalis) At the north side of Levanto, GL says it's a Mediterranean demoiselle (Calopteryx haemorrhoidalis). 2025-10-10 15:15:13 Levanto Calopteryx hämorrhoidalis / Mediterranean demoiselle. Seen in Italy, may not appear in Switzerland. This was the first observation.	Light Emerald / Perlglanzspanner (Campaea margaritata) GL says perhaps the Light Emerald (Campaea margaritata) moth - on a window at Puregym. 2025-08-29 14:08:16 Wald Fehraltorf Campaea margaritata / Perlglanzspanner, der / Light Emerald. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. Seen on a window at Puregym in Uster!. This was the first observation.
Holly blue / Faulbaum-Bläuling (Celastrina argiolus) GL says this is a Holly Blue butterfly (Celastrina argiolus), seen near the reservoir. 2026-04-22 17:20:22 Fehraltorf Celastrina argiolus / Faulbaum-Bläuling, der / Holly blue. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia 🦋. [EN]: Wikipedia. This was the first observation.	Small heath / Kleine Wiesenvögelchen (Coenonympha pamphilus) GL says with unusual certainty that this is a Small Heath (Coenonympha pamphilus). 2025-08-18 19:18:04 Fehraltorf Coenonympha pamphilus / Kleine Wiesenvögelchen, das / Small heath. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia 🦋. [EN]: Wikipedia. This was the first observation.
Pale clouded yellow / Goldene Acht, auch Posthörnchen, Kleines Posthörnchen, Weißklee-Gelbling, Gemeiner Gelbling, Gelber Heufalter (Colias hyale) GL can't say exactly what this is, just that it's likely a species from the Colias genus, I think maybe the Pale Clouded Yellow (Colias hyale) or C. croceus or C. alfacariensis TBI. 2025-09-13 17:14:39 Colias hyale / Goldene Acht, auch Posthörnchen, Kleines Posthörnchen, Weißklee-Gelbling, Gemeiner Gelbling, Gelber Heufalter, die / Pale clouded yellow. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia 🦋. [EN]: Wikipedia. This was the first observation.	Dingy Footman moth (Collita griseola) GL says most likely a Dingy Footman moth. 2025-08-14 00:09:07 Fehraltorf Collita griseola / Dingy Footman moth; Variant: Dingy footman. Sources: [EN]: Wikipedia. This was the first observation.
Sod Webworm Moth (Crambidae) GL sagt diese Mothe bei Bahnhof Fehraltorf ist ein weißer Nachtfalter (Motte), sehr wahrscheinlich aus der Familie der Zünsler (Crambidae) oder der Erebidae (Bärenspinner) und schlägt 3 Spezien vor. 2026-08-18 19:36:46 Fehraltorf Crambidae / Sod Webworm Moth. A small common moth. First observed on 01 July 2026 in Fehraltorf.	A kind of Crambus pascuella / Grasmotte (Crambus pascuella) Eventuell eine Grasmotte (Crambus pascuella). 2025-08-18 19:32:53 Fehraltorf Crambus pascuella / Grasmotte / A kind of Crambus pascuella. Sources: [EN]: Wikipedia. This was the first observation.
Short-tailed blue / Kurzschwänzige Bläuling (Cupido argiades) GL says this is a Long-tailed Blue (Lampides boeticus). 2025-10-10 15:53:04 Levanto Cupido argiades / Kurzschwänzige Bläuling, der / Short-tailed blue; Variant: Tailed Cupid. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia 🦋. [EN]: Wikipedia. First observed on 10 October 2025 in Levanto.	Cyclophora linearia / Rotbuchen-Gürtelpuppenspanner (Cyclophora linearia) Wahrscheinlich Rotbuchen-Gürtelpuppenspanner Cyclophora linearia. 2026-06-25 15:07:28 Cyclophora linearia / Rotbuchen-Gürtelpuppenspanner. Not found in list of Swiss butterflies?. This was the first observation.
Monarch butterfly / Monarchfalter (Danaus plexippus) A monarch butterfly! I didn't know they could be seen in Madeira, but it's true. 2023-03-16 15:35:48 Madeira Danaus plexippus / Monarchfalter, der / Monarch butterfly; Variant: Simply monarch. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. butterflies. [EN]: Wikipedia. This was the first observation.	Erebia / Mohrenfalter (Erebia) Gletscher-Mohrenfalter (Erebia pluto) oder. 2026-06-27 20:52:07 Erebia / Mohrenfalter. First observed on 25 June 2024.
Raetzer's ringlet (Erebia christi) GL says likely a Raetzer's Ringlet (Erebia christi). 2025-08-12 18:33:38 Klausenpass Erebia christi / Raetzer's ringlet. Sources: [DE]: 🦋. [EN]: Wikipedia. This was the first observation.	Lesser mountain ringlet (Erebia melampus) Probably a female Small Mountain Ringlet or Erebia epiphron. 2025-07-26 11:33:35 Fehraltorf Erebia melampus / Lesser mountain ringlet. Sources: [DE]: 🦋. [EN]: Wikipedia. First observed on 25 June 2024.
Erebia pharte / Unpunktierten Mohrenfalter (Erebia pharte) GL sieht rechts einen Unpunktierten Mohrenfalter (Erebia pharte). 2026-08-08 15:32:08 Engadin Erebia pharte / Unpunktierten Mohrenfalter. This was the first observation.	Swiss brassy ringlet / Schillernde Mohrenfalter (Erebia tyndarus) GL says this is likely a Swiss Brassy Ringlet (Erebia tyndarus) - on Anna's knee. 2025-08-12 13:42:54 Klausenpass Erebia tyndarus / Schillernde Mohrenfalter, der / Swiss brassy ringlet. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia 🦋. [EN]: Wikipedia. This was the first observation.
Larva of the Drinker Moth / Grasglucke (Euthrix potatoria) GL says the larva of the Drinker Moth (Euthrix potatoria). 2025-08-13 18:48:23 Klausenpass Euthrix potatoria / Grasglucke, die / Larva of the Drinker Moth. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. This was the first observation.	High brown fritillary / Feurige Perlmuttfalter (Fabriciana adippe) Argynnis adippe aka Fabriciana adippe, High brown fritillary, Feurige Perlmuttfalter in Wikipedia, Märzveilchenfalter im Gerstmeier book. 2026-06-25 14:57:52 Source: WIKIPEDIA 20260625_145752-4B2A2632 (1) Argynnis adippe aka Fabriciana adippe, High brown fritillary, Feurige Perlmuttfalter in Wikipedia, Märzveilchenfalter im Gerstmeier book.JPG Fabriciana adippe / Feurige Perlmuttfalter, der / High brown fritillary. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia 🦋. [EN]: Wikipedia. This was the first observation.
Common brimstone / Zitronenfalter (Gonepteryx rhamni) A Common Brimstone (Gonepteryx rhamni), known in German as the Zitronenfalter, bein Spielplatz daheim. 2026-04-20 11:33:42 Alpweg Gonepteryx rhamni / Zitronenfalter, der / Common brimstone. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia 🦋. [EN]: Wikipedia. This was the first observation.	Woodland grayling / Große Waldportier (Hipparchia fagi) GL says a species from the Grayling family (genus Hipparchia), specifically the Woodland Grayling (Hipparchia fagi) or potentially the Lesser Rock Grayling (Hipparchia genava). 2026-04-24 17:08:07 Hipparchia fagi / Große Waldportier, der / Woodland grayling. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia 🦋. [EN]: Wikipedia. This was the first observation.
Lesser rock grayling (Hipparchia genava) GL says a species from the Grayling family (genus Hipparchia), specifically the Woodland Grayling (Hipparchia fagi) or potentially the Lesser Rock Grayling (Hipparchia genava). 2026-04-24 17:08:07 Hipparchia genava / Lesser rock grayling. Sources: [DE]: 🦋. [EN]: Wikipedia. This was the first observation.	Grayling / Ockerbindige Samtfalter (Hipparchia semele) GL says a species from the Grayling family (genus Hipparchia), specifically the Woodland Grayling (Hipparchia fagi) or potentially the Lesser Rock Grayling (Hipparchia genava). 2026-04-24 17:08:07 Hipparchia semele / Ockerbindige Samtfalter, der / Grayling; Variant: Rock grayling. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia 🦋. [EN]: Wikipedia. This was the first observation.
Dusky meadow brown / Kleine Ochsenauge (Hyponephele lycaon) GL sagt das ist eine grosse, aber ich sage eher eine Kleine Ochsenauge (Hyponephele lycaon). 2025-08-09 16:51:47 Hyponephele lycaon / Kleine Ochsenauge, das / Dusky meadow brown. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia 🦋. [EN]: Wikipedia. This was the first observation.	Kleiner Fuchs (Kleiner Fuchs) Insects - Beautiful orange butterfly by Etna may be a Kleiner Fuchs aka Small tortoiseshell, Aglais urticae. 2025-06-01 12:45:33 Etna Kleiner Fuchs. Mein Vogelkalender sagt 'der Kleine Fuchs' nutz[t] Höhen oder Keller zur Überwinterung. First observed on 01 June 2025 in Etna.
Pea blue, / Große Wanderbläuling (Lampides boeticus) GL says this is a Long-tailed Blue (Lampides boeticus). 2025-10-10 15:53:04 Levanto Lampides boeticus / Große Wanderbläuling, der / Pea blue,; Variant: Long-tailed blue, is a small butterfly that belongs to lycaenids. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia 🦋. [EN]: Wikipedia. This was the first observation.	Large wall brown / Braunauge (Lasiommata maera) Lasiommata maera. 2025-08-12 10:24:02 Klausenpass Lasiommata maera / Braunauge, das / Large wall brown. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia 🦋. [EN]: Wikipedia. This was the first observation.
Wall / Mauerfuchs (Lasiommata megera) GL says most likely a Zebra jumping spider (Salticus scenicus) or a closely related species like the Half-edged wall jumping spider (Menemerus semilimbatus). Its dinner is said to be a mayfly exuvia—an empty exoskeleton. 2026-04-26 19:17:53 Fehraltorf Lasiommata megera / Mauerfuchs, der / Wall; Variant: Wall brown. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia 🦋. [EN]: Wikipedia. First observed on 10 October 2025 in Levanto.	Cryptic wood white (Leptidea juvernica) GL says this is likely a member of the Pieridae family, specifically a Small White (Pieris rapae) or a Wood White (Leptidea sinapis). 2026-04-19 17:37:04 Leptidea juvernica / Cryptic wood white. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia 🦋. [EN]: Wikipedia. This was the first observation.
The wood white butterfly of family Pieridae (Leptidea sinapis) GL says this is likely a member of the Pieridae family, specifically a Small White (Pieris rapae) or a Wood White (Leptidea sinapis). 2026-04-19 17:37:04 Leptidea sinapis / The wood white butterfly of family Pieridae. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia 🦋. [EN]: Wikipedia. This was the first observation.	Leptotes pirithous / Kleine Wanderbläuling (Leptotes pirithous) GL says a Lang's short-tailed blue (Leptotes pirithous) - but actually a pair of them. 2025-10-10 15:19:22 Levanto Leptotes pirithous / Kleine Wanderbläuling, der. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia 🦋. [EN]: Wikipedia. This was the first observation.
White Admiral / Kleine Eisvogel (Limenitis camilla) GL sagt zwei Kleine Eisvogel (Limenitis camilla). 2026-06-28 07:16:59 Limenitis camilla / Kleine Eisvogel, der / White Admiral. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia 🦋. [EN]: Wikipedia. First observed on 28 June 2025 in Wildert.	Adonis blue / Himmelblaue Bläuling (Lysandra bellargus) GL says to this slightly better photo, Common Blue (Polyommatus icarus) or a similar species such as the Adonis Blue (Lysandra bellargus). It's never quite sure... 2026-05-29 12:47:42 Fehraltorf Lysandra bellargus / Himmelblaue Bläuling, der / Adonis blue. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia 🦋. [EN]: Wikipedia. This was the first observation.
Chalkhill blue / Silbergrüne Bläuling (Lysandra coridon) GL says a Chalkhill Blue (Lysandra coridon). 2025-08-12 15:28:41 Klausenpass Lysandra coridon / Silbergrüne Bläuling, der / Chalkhill blue. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia 🦋. [EN]: Wikipedia. This was the first observation.	Hummingbird hawk-moth / Taubenschwänzchen (Macroglossum stellatarum) Hummingbird hawk-moth (Macroglossum stellatarum) vorm Haus. 2026-02-24 15:39:25 Fehraltorf Macroglossum stellatarum / Taubenschwänzchen, das; Variant: Taubenschwänzchen / Hummingbird hawk-moth. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. For some reason not in the pieris.ch site I usually refer to? Wikipedia says about the family: Die Schwärmer (Sphingidae) sind eine Familie der Schmetterlinge. Sie kommen weltweit mit etwa 1200 Arten vor, davon sind 40 aus Europa bekannt,[1] in Mitteleuropa leben davon 21 Arten. First observed on 21 July 2016 in Fehraltorf.
Meadow brown / Große Ochsenauge (Maniola jurtina) GL says this is a Meadow Brown (Maniola jurtina). 2026-06-24 08:04:48 Fehraltorf Maniola jurtina / Große Ochsenauge, das / Meadow brown. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia 🦋. [EN]: Wikipedia. First observed on 19 August 2025 in Pfäffikersee.	Marbled white / Schachbrett (Melanargia galathea) GL says a Marbled White butterfly (scientific name Melanargia galathea), and I agree. 2025-07-29 15:00:25 Melanargia galathea / Schachbrett, das / Marbled white. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia 🦋. [EN]: Wikipedia. This was the first observation.
Spotted fritillary / Rote Scheckenfalter (Melitaea didyma) Looks like a Spotted Fritillary (Melitaea didyma). 2026-06-10 18:09:28 Provence Melitaea didyma / Rote Scheckenfalter, der / Spotted fritillary; Variant: Red-band fritillary. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia 🦋. [EN]: Wikipedia. This was the first observation.	Dryad / Blauäugige Waldportier (Minois dryas) Google Lens says it's a dryad butterfly. 2025-07-17 14:08:58 Kaltbrunner-Riet Minois dryas / Blauäugige Waldportier, der / Dryad. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia 🦋. [EN]: Wikipedia. Saw one in Kaltbrunner-Riet. This was the first observation.
Large skipper / Rostfarbige Dickkopffalter (Ochlodes sylvanus) GL says a Large Skipper (Ochlodes sylvanus). 2026-06-20 08:37:59 Fehraltorf Ochlodes sylvanus / Rostfarbige Dickkopffalter, der / Large skipper. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia 🦋. [EN]: Wikipedia. This was the first observation.	Chimney Sweeper Moth / Schwarzspanner (Odezia atrata) GL says this is a Chimney Sweeper Moth (Odezia atrata). 2025-08-13 18:52:05 Klausenpass Odezia atrata / Schwarzspanner, der / Chimney Sweeper Moth. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. . This was the first observation.
Old World swallowtail / Schwalbenschwanz (Papilio machaon) GL says an Old World Swallowtail, also known as Papilio machaon. 2025-08-13 18:48:44 Klausenpass Papilio machaon / Schwalbenschwanz, der / Old World swallowtail. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia 🦋. [EN]: Wikipedia. First observed on 17 August 2022 in Fehraltorf.	Fennel Swallowtail / Familie der (Papilio polyxenes) Google Lens says this is a Fennel Swallowtail caterpillar - not sure, but they look similar. 2024-06-14 18:42:53 Pfäffikersee Papilio polyxenes / Familie der / Fennel Swallowtail. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. Here a caterpillar - not sure, but they look similar. This was the first observation.
Scarce Large Blue (Phengaris rebeli) GL says likely a Phengaris rebeli, also known as the Scarce Large Blue or Rebel's Large Blue. 2025-08-10 18:33:06 Phengaris rebeli / Scarce Large Blue; Variant: Rebel's Large Blue. This was the first observation.	Green-veined white / Rapsweißling (Pieris napi) Green-veined White (Pieris napi) by Maggia, Ticino. 2025-07-31 11:51:55 Pieris napi / Rapsweißling, der / Green-veined white. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia 🦋. [EN]: Wikipedia. This was the first observation.
Small White, also known as the Cabbage White / Kleine Kohlweißling (Pieris rapae) Cabbage white. 2025-08-05 13:55:55 Fehraltorf Pieris rapae / Kleine Kohlweißling, der / Small White, also known as the Cabbage White. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia 🦋. [EN]: Wikipedia URL. A common butterfly species in Switzerland. See #google_vignette. First observed on 17 August 2024 in Fehraltorf.	White Featherleg (Platycnemis latipes) Could be White Featherleg male (Platycnemis latipes) seen near Orange, France. 2026-06-17 18:28:43 Platycnemis latipes / White Featherleg. Identified in France, but not on my Swiss list. This was the first observation.
Comma / C-Falter (Polygonia c-album) GL sagt links ist.ein C-Falter (Polygonia c-album). 2026-06-28 07:08:53 Polygonia c-album / C-Falter / Comma. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia 🦋. [EN]: Wikipedia. Also classified as a Nymphalis c-album. First observed on 14 August 2025 in Fehraltorf.	Common blue butterfly / Hauhechel-Bläuling (Polyommatus icarus) GL says a Common Blue butterfly (Polyommatus icarus). 2025-08-13 18:44:51 Klausenpass Polyommatus icarus / Hauhechel-Bläuling, der / Common blue butterfly; Variant: European common blue. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia 🦋. [EN]: Wikipedia. First observed on 20 July 2025 in Schwändi.
Pyrausta despicata / Olivenbrauner Zünsler (Pyrausta despicata) GL sagt es gibt hier einen Olivenbraunen Zünsler (Pyrausta despicata, auch Wegerich-Zünsler genannt). 2026-08-31 14:36:36 Fehraltorf Pyrausta despicata / Olivenbrauner Zünsler. This was the first observation.	Pyrausta purpuralis / Purpurroter Zünsler (Pyrausta purpuralis) GL meint ein Purpurroter Zünsler (Pyrausta purpuralis) in Schwänd. 2026-08-29 15:02:17 Schwändi Pyrausta purpuralis / Purpurroter Zünsler. This was the first observation.
Satyrium / Zipfelfalter (Satyrium) GL hat 3 Möglichkeiten von einem Zipfelfalter (Gattung Satyrium) vorgeschlagen. 2026-08-30 12:04:57 Source: OTHER 20260830_120457 GL hat 3 Möglichkeiten von einem Zipfelfalter (Gattung Satyrium) vorgeschlagen.jpg Glarnerland Satyrium / Zipfelfalter. This was the first observation.	Thymelicus lineola / Schwarzkolbige Braun-Dickkopffalter (Thymelicus lineola) GL says Small Skipper (Thymelicus sylvestris) or an Essex Skipper (Thymelicus lineola). 2025-07-31 10:21:46 Thymelicus lineola / Schwarzkolbige Braun-Dickkopffalter, der. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia 🦋. [EN]: Wikipedia. This was the first observation.
Small skipper / Braunkolbige (Thymelicus sylvestris) GL says Small Skipper (Thymelicus sylvestris) or an Essex Skipper (Thymelicus lineola). 2025-07-31 10:21:46 Thymelicus sylvestris / Braunkolbige, der / Small skipper. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia 🦋. [EN]: Wikipedia. This was the first observation.	Eurasian bee beetle / Gebänderter Pinselkäfer (Trichius fasciatus) A bee beetle (genus Trichius), I think a Eurasian bee beetle or Gebänderte Pinselkäfer (Trichius fasciatus). 2025-07-20 14:09:10 Trichius fasciatus / Gebänderter Pinselkäfer, der; Variant: Gebänderte Pinselkäfer / Eurasian bee beetle. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. ??. This was the first observation.
Red admiral / Admiral (Vanessa atalanta) A tough-ass Admiral, still flying around at 11C. 2025-10-12 11:15:55 Fehraltorf Vanessa atalanta / Admiral, der / Red admiral; Variant: The red admirable. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia 🦋. [EN]: Wikipedia. First observed on 21 February 2023 in Staldenweiher.	Painted lady / Distelfalter (Vanessa cardui) Painted lady, view of both sides of wings. 2025-08-17 14:14:17 Fehraltorf Vanessa cardui / Distelfalter, der / Painted lady; Variant: Formerly in North America cosmopolitan. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia 🦋. [EN]: Wikipedia. First observed on 21 July 2016 in Fehraltorf.
Silver-ground carpet / Schwarzbraunbinden-Blattspanner (Xanthorhoe montanata) Google Lens says a Silver-Ground Carpet (scientific name Xanthorhoe montanata). 2025-07-26 11:37:36 Fehraltorf Xanthorhoe montanata / Schwarzbraunbinden-Blattspanner, der / Silver-ground carpet. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. Actually a moth - are they not included from the butterfly web site?. First observed on 25 June 2024 in Mettmenalp, GL.	Spindle Ermine (Yponomeuta cagnagella) GL says this is a Spindle Ermine moth larva (Yponomeuta cagnagella). 2026-05-23 15:26:38 Fanel/Chablais de Cudrefin und La Sauge Yponomeuta cagnagella / Spindle Ermine. A moth. This was the first observation.
Six-spot Burnet moth / Sechsfleck-Widderchen (Zygaena filipendulae) GL says this is a Burnet moth, likely a Six-spot Burnet (Zygaena filipendulae). 2025-08-12 18:27:43 Klausenpass Zygaena filipendulae / Sechsfleck-Widderchen, das / Six-spot Burnet moth; Variant: Six-spot burnet. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. This was the first observation.

Wasps:

General: Observed 6 kinds.

Great Potter Wasp / Große Lehmwespe (Delta unguiculatum) TBI, GL says a potter wasp, possibly from the genus Delta or Eumenes, such as Delta unguiculatum or Eumenes coarctatus. 2025-08-05 13:16:06 Fehraltorf Delta unguiculatum / Große Lehmwespe, die / Great Potter Wasp; Variant: A kind of Delta unguiculatum. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. This was the first observation.	Heath Potter Wasp / eine Art Pillenwespe (Eumenes coarctatus) TBI, GL says a potter wasp, possibly from the genus Delta or Eumenes, such as Delta unguiculatum or Eumenes coarctatus. 2025-08-05 13:16:06 Fehraltorf Eumenes coarctatus / eine Art Pillenwespe / Heath Potter Wasp. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. . a kind of potter wasp. This was the first observation.
Mediterranean Potter Wasp (Eumenes mediterraneus) TBI - GL says a potter wasp, likely belonging to the genus Eumenes. More specifically, it resembles species like Eumenes coarctatus or Eumenes mediterraneus. 2025-08-05 13:17:02 Fehraltorf Eumenes mediterraneus / Mediterranean Potter Wasp; Variant: A kind of Eumenes mediterraneus. Sources: [EN]: Wikipedia. a kind of potter wasp. This was the first observation.	European paper wasp / Papierwespe (Polistes dominula) GL sagt wahrscheinlich um eine Feldwespe (Polistes dominula). 2025-08-09 16:56:48 Polistes dominula / Papierwespe, die; Variant: Haus-Feldwespe / European paper wasp; Variant: European paper wasp#2. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. There are no doubt lots of kinds of paper wasps, not sure this is the right kind.. First observed on 01 August 2024.
Sabre wasp / Holzwespen-Schlupfwespe (Rhyssa persuasoria) GL meint eine Holzwespen-Schlupfwespe (Rhyssa persuasoria). 2025-09-03 08:59:57 Wildert Rhyssa persuasoria / Holzwespen-Schlupfwespe / Sabre wasp. Google Lens sagt, "die Holzwespen-Schlupfwespe ist keine Wespe, sondern gehört zur Familie der Schlupfwespen (Ichneumonidae)", but in Wikipedia it sounds as if they are. Go figure! The family Ichneumonidae, also known as ichneumon wasps, ichneumonid wasps, ichneumonids, or Darwin wasps (and if Darwin thought they were wasps, I guess they are).. First observed on 02 September 2025 in Fehraltorf.	Vespula germanica / Deutsch Wespe (Vespula germanica) GL says a German wasp (Vespula germanica), also commonly known as a European wasp or yellowjacket. 2026-04-20 12:01:12 Alpweg Vespula germanica / Deutsch Wespe. Sources: [EN]: Wikipedia. First observed on 23 August 2025.

Hornets:

General: Observed 1 kinds.

European hornet / Europäische Hornisse (Vespa crabro)

Vespa crabro / Europäische Hornisse, die; Variant: Hornisse / European hornet; Variant: European hornet#2. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. Hornissen sind deutlich größer als Wespen oder Bienen gelb-schwarz, wobei der Brustbereich oft rötlich-braun gefärbt ist. Verbreitung in der Schweiz: Die Europäische Hornisse ist in der Schweiz heimisch und weit verbreitet.. [EN]: Wikipedia. First observed on 10 August 2025.

Truebugs:

General: I had no idea that biologists use the term bugs, but these are referred to as 'true bugs'! The Smithsonian says, 'The True Bugs are insects that have two pairs of wings.'

Ectobius vittiventris / Bernstein-Waldschabe (Ectobius vittiventris) GL klingt nicht so sicher aber meint eine junge Bernstein-Waldschabe (Ectobius vittiventris) was anscheinend eine harmlose Art Kakerlake ist. 2026-05-11 18:59:11 Schwändi Ectobius vittiventris / Bernstein-Waldschabe. This was the first observation.	Water striders (Gerris) GL says these are water striders, likely from the genus Gerris or Aquarius. 2026-04-20 16:02:29 Alpweg Gerris / Water striders. Sources: [EN]: Wikipedia. Genus Gerrus includes 43 species! Water striders are also of genus Aquarius, which includdes 19 species. A common kind in Switzerland is Gerris lacustris, commonly known as the common pond skater or common water strider - https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gerris_lacustris. This was the first observation.
Southern green shield bug / die Grüne Reiswanze (Nezara viridula) GoogleLens says the green one is a nymph of the Southern Green Stink Bug, also known as the Green Vegetable Bug or Southern Green Shield Bug (Nezara viridula). 2025-07-25 15:41:12 Fehraltorf Nezara viridula / die Grüne Reiswanze / Southern green shield bug; Variant: southern green stink bug. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. The order Hemiptera includes what are called 'true bugs', so I'm using that as a type for now. This was the first observation.	Meadow Spittlebug / Wiesenschaumzikade (Philaenus spumarius) Meadow Spittlebug on the door to our patio in Fehraltorf. 2025-07-14 15:00:18 Fehraltorf Philaenus spumarius / Wiesenschaumzikade, die / Meadow Spittlebug; Variant: Meadow froghopper. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. GoogleLens says, this species is highly variable in color and pattern, typically ranging from yellowish, brownish, or black, with various markings. It is known for its froglike appearance and powerful leaping ability. It belongs to the family Aphrophoridae, commonly known as spittlebugs or froghoppers. This was the first observation.
Pseudochorthippus parallelus / Gemeiner Grashüpfer (Pseudochorthippus parallelus) GL vermutet Gemeiner Grashüpfer (Pseudochorthippus parallelus) oder Sumpfschrecke (Stethophyma grossum). 2026-08-20 09:01:30 Wildert Pseudochorthippus parallelus / Gemeiner Grashüpfer, der; Variant: Gemeine Grashüpfer. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. First observed on 03 September 2025 in Wildert.	Fire bug / Gemeine Feuerwanze (Pyrrhocoris apterus) A fire bug (Pyrrhocoris apterus) with the typical voodoo mask. 2025-08-22 14:38:15 Fehraltorf Pyrrhocoris apterus / Gemeine Feuerwanze, die / Fire bug. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. Known for the 'voodoo mask' on its back! Very common around our house, but I've never seen the groups of 100s or 1000s that are described at Wikipedia. Note that what are called 'true bugs' in English by biologists are 'Wanzen' in German.. First observed on 22 August 2025 in Fehraltorf. This was the earliest appearance in winter/spring/summer.
Bright-spotted Groundbug (Rhyparochromus vulgaris) GL says a Bright-spotted Groundbug (Rhyparochromus vulgaris), a species of dirt-colored seed bug native to Europe and commonly found in Switzerland. 2026-04-16 16:27:51 Europe Rhyparochromus vulgaris / Bright-spotted Groundbug. GL says a Bright-spotted Groundbug (Rhyparochromus vulgaris) is a species of dirt-colored seed bug native to Europe and commonly found in Switzerland. This was the first observation.	Wood gnat (Sylvicola) GL says this is a wood gnat (also known as a window-gnat), likely from the genus Sylvicola. It is on our kitchen window... 2026-04-21 08:40:11 Fehraltorf Sylvicola / Wood gnat; Variant: Window gnat. I like the name window gnat, since I saw it on our kitchen window!. This was the first observation.
Crane Fly / Schnake (Tipulidae) GL says a Crane Fly, a member of the Tipulidae family, with wings and large size likely Tipula maxima (Riesenschnake), one of the largest crane fly species in Switzerland. 2026-04-26 19:18:42 Switzerland Tipulidae / Schnake / Crane Fly. This was the first observation.

Spiders:

General: Observed 20 kinds.

European garden spider (Araneus diadematus) GL says European garden spider (Araneus diadematus), also known as the cross orbweaver or diadem spider. 2025-08-07 19:55:24 Fehraltorf Araneus diadematus / European garden spider; Variants: European garden spider cross orbweaver diadem spider orangie cross spider and crowned orb weaver, cross orbweaver, diadem spider. Sources: [EN]: Wikipedia. First observed on 03 August 2025 in Fehraltorf.	Dwarf spider (Erigone) GL says most likely a species of dwarf spider or money spider from the genus Erigone (family Linyphiidae). 2026-04-21 12:59:28 Fehraltorf Erigone / Dwarf spider; Variant: money spider. family Linyphiidae. This was the first observation.
Jumping spider (Family Salticidae) GL says most likely a Zebra jumping spider (Salticus scenicus) or a closely related species like the Half-edged wall jumping spider (Menemerus semilimbatus). Its dinner is said to be a mayfly exuvia—an empty exoskeleton. 2026-04-26 19:17:53 Fehraltorf Family Salticidae / Jumping spider. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jumping_spider,https://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Springspinnen. Sources: [EN]: Wikipedia Wikipedia. First observed on 17 August 2025 in Fehraltorf.	Adanson's house jumper / Gewächshausspringspinne (Hasarius adansoni) GL sagt die Spinne auf unserem Fenster ist eine Springspinne (Familie Salticidae) am wahrscheinlichsten eine Hasarius adansoni (Gewächshausspringspinne) oder von der Gattung Heliophanus (Sonnenspringspinnen). 2026-05-20 16:06:56 Source: OTHER 20260520_160656 GL sagt die Spinne auf unserem Fenster ist eine Springspinne (Familie Salticidae) am wahrscheinlichsten eine Hasarius adansoni (Gewächshausspringspinne) oder von der Gattung Heliophanus (Sonnenspringspinnen).jpg Fehraltorf Hasarius adansoni / Gewächshausspringspinne / Adanson's house jumper. First observed on 17 May 2026 in Alpweg.
Hogna radiata / Schwarzbäuchige Tarantel (Hogna radiata) GL meint Schwarzbäuchige Tarantel (Hogna radiata), auch bekannt als Europäische Wolfsspinne. 2026-04-05 11:38:47 Vienna Hogna radiata / Schwarzbäuchige Tarantel. This was the first observation.	Money Spider / Gemeine Baldachinspinne (Linyphia triangularis) Money spider as photographed earlier with my cell phone. 2025-09-18 15:33:38 Fehraltorf Linyphia triangularis / Gemeine Baldachinspinne, die / Money Spider. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. First observed on 18 September 2025 in Fehraltorf.
Marpissa muscosa / Rindenspringspinne (Marpissa muscosa) Von den drei Vorschlägen von GL sieht das für mich am ähnlichsten zu der Rindenspringspinne (Marpissa muscosa). 2026-05-26 12:12:48 Source: OTHER 20260526_121248 Von den drei Vorschlägen von GL sieht das für mich am ähnlichsten zu der Rindenspringspinne (Marpissa muscosa).jpg Fehraltorf Marpissa muscosa / Rindenspringspinne. This was the first observation.	White Crab Spider / Veränderliche Krabbenspinne (Misumena vatia) Unter der Biene siehr man was ich glaube eine Veränderliche Krabbenspinnen (Misumena vatia) ist. 2026-05-21 07:42:03 Fehraltorf Misumena vatia / Veränderliche Krabbenspinne, die / White Crab Spider; Variants: A kind of Misumena vatia, Goldenrod Crab Spider. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. First observed on 17 April 2026 in Fehraltorf.
Daddy Long Legs (Nephrotoma) Northern mockingbird with its very long legs and tails, Cherrywood Court. 2021-06-17 05:53:30 Cherrywood Nephrotoma / Daddy Long Legs. Didn't look a DLL to me. This was the first observation.	Long-bodied cellar spider / Große Zitterspinne (Pholcus phalangioides) GL says this is a Cellar Spider, commonly known as a Daddy Long-legs spider, or specifically Pholcus phalangioides. 2025-09-28 18:01:57 Fehraltorf Pholcus phalangioides / Große Zitterspinne, die / Long-bodied cellar spider. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. GL says Characteristics of the Long-bodied Cellar Spider Appearance: They are known for their long, thin, and delicate legs and a small, oval-shaped body. Habitat: These spiders prefer warm environments, which is why they are frequently found in basements, corners of rooms, and other sheltered areas inside human dwellings. Behavior: They are harmless to humans and are often seen hanging upside down in their messy, irregular webs. . This was the first observation.
Nursery Web Spider / Listspinne (Pisaura mirabilis) GL says a Nursery Web Spider (Pisaura mirabilis). 2026-04-30 16:29:24 Fehraltorf Pisaura mirabilis / Listspinne, die / Nursery Web Spider. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. Saw this one on our doormat, not in the nursery room. First observed on 30 September 2025 in Fehraltorf.	Fleecy jumping spider (Pseudeuophrys lanigera) In Anna's bedroom, GL says a Fleecy Jumping Spider (Pseudeuophrys lanigera). 2026-03-06 07:49:12 Pseudeuophrys lanigera / Fleecy jumping spider. spiders. This was the first observation.
Zebra jumping spider (Salticus scenicus) GL says most likely a Zebra jumping spider (Salticus scenicus) or a closely related species like the Half-edged wall jumping spider (Menemerus semilimbatus). Its dinner is said to be a mayfly exuvia—an empty exoskeleton. 2026-04-26 19:17:53 Fehraltorf Salticus scenicus / Zebra jumping spider. https://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mauer-Zebraspringspinne,https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Zebra_spider. Sources: [EN]: Wikipedia Wikipedia. This was the first observation.	Blackwall's ground spider / Kleine Mausspinne (Scotophaeus blackwalli) GL says possibly a Scotophaeus blackwalli (also known as the Blackwall's ground spider). 2025-08-22 14:38:49 Fehraltorf Scotophaeus blackwalli / Kleine Mausspinne, die / Blackwall's ground spider. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. This was the first observation.
False Widow spider (Steatoda genus) GL says likely a member of the Steatoda genus, commonly known as False Widow spiders. 2026-05-21 14:32:56 Fehraltorf Steatoda genus / False Widow spider. This was the first observation.	Triangulate Cobweb Spider / Dreiecks-Fettspinne (Steatoda triangulosa) In unserem WC meint GL eine Dreiecks-Fettspinne (Steatoda triangulosa), auch bekannt als Wärmeliebende Kugelspinne. 2026-07-20 12:29:10 Alpweg Steatoda triangulosa / Dreiecks-Fettspinne, die / Triangulate Cobweb Spider. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. First observed on 22 August 2025 in Fehraltorf.
Talavera inopinata (Talavera inopinata) Looks like a Talavera inopinata, a tiny spider in our bathroom, a kind of jumping spider. 2025-08-30 11:11:49 Fehraltorf Talavera inopinata. Hmm, not at all sure about this ID, as it's only listed in Wikipedia in languages used in northern Europe. It's supposed to be seen in Germany, but there is no special German name, nor have I found an English one. This was the first observation.	Xysticus / Echte Krabbenspinne (Xysticus) Auf unserer Terasse, GL meinr eine Echte Krabbenspinne (Gattung Xysticus). 2026-07-04 18:41:30 Fehraltorf Xysticus / Echte Krabbenspinne. This was the first observation.
Nosferatu spider / Nosferatu-Spinne (Zoropsis spinimana) GL says another Nosferatu spider (Zoropsis spinimana). 2026-08-18 18:16:44 Fehraltorf Zoropsis spinimana / Nosferatu-Spinne, die / Nosferatu spider; Variant: False Wolf Spider. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. Cool that my first Nosferatu spider ID happened a day before Halloween. GL says it's often mistaken for a wolf spider due to its size and appearance, but can be distinguished by the unique pattern on its cephalothorax, which resembles the face of the fictional character Nosferatu. First observed on 30 October 2025 in Fehraltorf.	Copper sun jumper / Kupfrige Sonnenspringspinne (heliophanus cupreus) GL says this is a copper sun jumper or heliophanus cupreus. 2025-06-19 16:53:30 Fehraltorf heliophanus cupreus / Kupfrige Sonnenspringspinne, die / Copper sun jumper. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. This was the first observation.

Otherarachnoids:

General: Wikipedia says arachnida includes, among others, spiders, scorpions, ticks, mites, pseudoscorpions, harvestmen, camel spiders, whip spiders and vinegaroons. I have listed spiders separately; added this for harvestmen or daddy long legs, as we called them.

Saddleback harvestman / Gemeine Gebirgsweberknecht (Mitopus morio)

Mitopus morio / Gemeine Gebirgsweberknecht, der / Saddleback harvestman; Variant: A kind of Mitopus morio. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. There are so many kinds of daddy long legs in Switzerland - 50 to 70 - so it's hard to know which kind you'll see. After examining photos online, I feel that the one in our back yard looks most like a Gemeine Gebirgsweberknecht. iNaturalist.org calls this kind a saddleback harvestman, which I find a good description. This was the first observation.

Louses:

General: Observed 1 kinds.

Common rough woodlouse / Kellerassel (Porcellio scaber)

Porcellio scaber / Kellerassel, die / Common rough woodlouse. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. This was the first observation.

What are these?:

General: These species are not one of the kinds whose common name I'm using here - there are so many kind of insects, I'm not sure we have popular names for all of them.

Aglais (Aglais) Insects - Beautiful orange butterfly by Etna may be a Kleiner Fuchs aka Small tortoiseshell, Aglais urticae. 2025-06-01 12:45:33 Etna Aglais. First observed on 01 June 2025 in Etna.	Mining bee (Andrenidae) GL says a solitary bee, likely from the family Andrenidae (mining bees) or Halictidae (sweat bees). 2025-07-22 11:54:33 Fehraltorf Andrenidae / Mining bee. This was the first observation.
Apatura (Apatura) GL meinte ich sah hier sehr wahrscheinlich um den Kleinen Eisvogel (Limenitis camilla) oder den Großen Schillerfalter (Apatura iris). 2026-06-28 07:11:52 Apatura. This was the first observation.	Aphantopus (Aphantopus) GL says probably a Ringlet butterfly, scientifically known as Aphantopus hyperantus. 2025-08-03 13:39:48 Fehraltorf Aphantopus. This was the first observation.
Apidae (Apidae) GL says a fuzzy bumblebee (Bombus species), likely a common European species such as the buff-tailed bumblebee (Bombus terrestris) or a similar member of the Apidae family. 2026-09-07 18:14:17 Fehraltorf Apidae. This was the first observation.	German cockroach / Deutsche Schabe (Blattella germanica) GL says this is a cockroach, most likely a German cockroach (Blattella germanica). 2025-09-18 14:06:34 Fehraltorf Blattella germanica / Deutsche Schabe, die; Variants: Küchenschabe, die Gemeine Küchenschabe / German cockroach; Variants: German cockroach#2, croton bug. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. Strange name - According to Wikipedia, it was discovered recently that it mutated slightly aout 2000 years ago from the Asian cockroach. And it has wings, but can barely fly. These are the annoying ones you kill if you find them in your house. The German page says they're generally active at night, and seeing them during the day means there are too many of them or something else isn't right.. This was the first observation.
Bombus (Bombus) GL sagt wahrscheinlich eine Ackerhummel (Bombus pascuorum). 2026-05-07 15:38:16 Fehraltorf Bombus. First observed on 01 June 2025 in Etna.	Cacyreus (Cacyreus) GL says a Geranium Bronze (Cacyreus marshalli). . 2025-10-10 15:24:45 Levanto Cacyreus. This was the first observation.
Calliphoridae (Calliphoridae) GL meint eine Fliege aus der Familie der Echten Fliegen (Muscidae) oder Schmeißfliegen (Calliphoridae). 2026-05-21 18:16:25 Fehraltorf Calliphoridae. First observed on 05 March 2026.	Celastrina (Celastrina) GL says this is a Holly Blue butterfly (Celastrina argiolus), seen near the reservoir. 2026-04-22 17:20:22 Fehraltorf Celastrina. This was the first observation.
Coenonympha (Coenonympha) GL says with unusual certainty that this is a Small Heath (Coenonympha pamphilus). 2025-08-18 19:18:04 Fehraltorf Coenonympha. This was the first observation.	Colias (Colias) GL sagt wahrscheinlich um das Männchen des Postillons (Colias croceus). 2026-08-08 12:55:53 Engadin Colias. First observed on 13 September 2025.
Diplazon laetatorius (Diplazon laetatorius) GL says a parasitoid wasp, specifically likely to be Diplazon laetatorius. 2026-04-24 17:03:16 Diplazon laetatorius. A parasite wasp. This was the first observation.	Diptera (Diptera) Dozens of insects flying over the Luppmen by Pfaeffikon. GL says midges (Order Diptera but many species), because they swarm for a few days to a week and like water. Other possibilites are mayflies, caddisflies or fungus gnats. 2026-05-17 13:08:45 Luppmen Diptera. This was the first observation.
Distelfalter (Distelfalter) Schmetterling in unserem Garten, Google Lens meint ein painted lady (Vanessa cardui), auf Deutsch Distelfalter, ähnlich wie ein Klein-er Fuchs oder Red ad-miral. 2016-07-21 13:37:30 Fehraltorf Distelfalter. This was the first observation.	Saxon wasp / Sächsische Wespe (Dolichovespula saxonica) GL meint dass es höchstwahrscheinlich um eine Sächsische Wespe (Dolichovespula saxonica) handelt, gesehen beim Bienenstand am Bahnhof Fehraltorf. 2026-05-05 17:53:48 Fehraltorf Dolichovespula saxonica / Sächsische Wespe / Saxon wasp. Sources: [EN]: Wikipedia. This was the first observation.
Empididae (Empididae) GL sagt, das Insekt auf dem Bild gehört höchstwahrscheinlich zur Familie der Tanzfliegen (Empididae). 2026-06-03 18:47:37 Fehraltorf Empididae. This was the first observation.	Erebidae (Erebidae) GL sagt diese Mothe bei Bahnhof Fehraltorf ist ein weißer Nachtfalter (Motte), sehr wahrscheinlich aus der Familie der Zünsler (Crambidae) oder der Erebidae (Bärenspinner) und schlägt 3 Spezien vor. 2026-08-18 19:36:46 Fehraltorf Erebidae. This was the first observation.
Euptoieta claudia / Variegated Fritillary (Euptoieta claudia) Near Apt - a Variegated Fritillary (Euptoieta claudia). 2026-06-08 07:28:29 Provence Euptoieta claudia / Variegated Fritillary. This was the first observation.	Ensign wasp (Evaniidae) GL says this tiny thing is an ensign wasp (family Evaniidae). 2026-07-25 14:29:44 Wildert Evaniidae / Ensign wasp. This was the first observation.
Fabriciana (Fabriciana) TBI GL meint einen Perlmuttfalter (Gattung Argynnis oder Speyeria Fabriciana). 2026-08-09 15:26:33 Engadin Fabriciana. First observed on 09 August 2026 in Engadin.	Masked bee (Genus Hylaeus) GL says this appears to be a member of the genus Hylaeus, commonly known as masked bees or yellow-faced bees. 2026-04-19 15:02:19 Genus Hylaeus / Masked bee; Variant: Yellow-faced bee. This was the first observation.
Gnitze (Gnitze) GL sagt eine Gnitze (Familie Ceratopogonidae), eventuell die Art Culicoides impunctatus, bin skeptisch, weil diese Blutsauger sind und gibt's vor allem in Schottland und Nordeuropa. 2026-03-12 15:54:05 Fehraltorf Gnitze. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. . This was the first observation.	Gomphocerinae (Gomphocerinae) TBI - In Wildert, GL sagt eine Heuschrecke, genauer gesagt, ein Grashüpfer (Unterfamilie Gomphocerinae). 2025-09-03 15:13:28 Wildert Gomphocerinae. This was the first observation.
Gonepteryx (Gonepteryx) A Common Brimstone (Gonepteryx rhamni), known in German as the Zitronenfalter, bein Spielplatz daheim. 2026-04-20 11:33:42 Alpweg Gonepteryx. First observed on 10 August 2025.	Halictidae (Halictidae) GL says a solitary bee, likely from the family Andrenidae (mining bees) or Halictidae (sweat bees). 2025-07-22 11:54:33 Fehraltorf Halictidae. This was the first observation.
A kind of Halictus ligatus / Furchenbiene (Halictus ligatus) Honigbiene (Apis mellifera) oder eine Furchenbiene (z.B. Halictus ligatus). 2025-08-05 11:52:42 Fehraltorf Halictus ligatus / Furchenbiene / A kind of Halictus ligatus. Sources: [EN]: Wikipedia. This was the first observation.	Dark bush-cricket (Holidoptera griseoaptera) GL says this insect on our house is a female Dark Bush-cricket (Pholidoptera griseoaptera), recognizable by its dark brownish body and long, sword-like ovipositor at the rear. 2026-08-03 20:50:25 Fehraltorf Holidoptera griseoaptera / Dark bush-cricket. GL says recognizable by its dark brownish body and long, sword-like ovipositor at the rear.. This was the first observation.
Ichneumon wasp (Ichneumonidae) GL says a type of Ichneumon wasp (family Ichneumonidae), a diverse group of parasitic wasps. 2026-04-20 16:12:29 Alpweg Ichneumonidae / Ichneumon wasp. Ichneumonidae is a diverse group of parasitic wasps. This was the first observation.	Lasioglossum (Lasioglossum) GL says a sweat bee, most likely from the genus Lasioglossum (often called furrow bees) or Halictus. 2026-04-16 16:26:36 Fehraltorf Lasioglossum. Called sweatbees. This was the first observation.
Limenitis (Limenitis) GL sagt zwei Kleine Eisvogel (Limenitis camilla). 2026-06-28 07:16:59 Limenitis. First observed on 28 June 2025 in Wildert.	Maniola (Maniola) GL says this is a Meadow Brown (Maniola jurtina). 2026-06-24 08:04:48 Fehraltorf Maniola. First observed on 19 August 2025 in Pfäffikersee.
Megachilidae (Megachilidae) GL says a honey bee (Apis mellifera) or a closely related solitary bee species (such as a leafcutter bee from the family Megachilidae). 2026-08-12 09:00:22 Fehraltorf Megachilidae. This was the first observation.	Muscidae (Muscidae) GL meint eine Fliege aus der Familie der Echten Fliegen (Muscidae) oder Schmeißfliegen (Calliphoridae). 2026-05-21 18:16:25 Fehraltorf Muscidae. This was the first observation.
Nomada / Wespenbiene (Nomada) GL sagt dies ist eine Wespenbiene (Gattung Nomada), eine spezielle Art von Wildbiene. 2026-04-23 08:47:27 Fehraltorf Nomada / Wespenbiene. Gesehen bei einem Spaziergang richtung Pistolschutzenhaus in Fehraltorf. This was the first observation.	Mason bee (Osmia cornifrons) GL says probably a Mason Bee (Osmia cornifrons), which is commonly known as a horned-face bee. 2026-04-19 17:33:19 Osmia cornifrons / Mason bee; Variant: horned-face bee. This was the first observation.
Papilio (Papilio) GL says an Old World Swallowtail, also known as Papilio machaon. 2025-08-13 18:48:44 Klausenpass Papilio. First observed on 09 August 2025.	Pentatomidae (Pentatomidae) GL says this is the nymph of a stink bug (family Pentatomidae), possibly a species like the Brown Marmorated Stink Bug. 2026-06-01 16:30:27 Fehraltorf Pentatomidae. This was the first observation.
Pieridae (Pieridae) GL says this is likely a member of the Pieridae family, specifically a Small White (Pieris rapae) or a Wood White (Leptidea sinapis). 2026-04-19 17:37:04 Pieridae. This was the first observation.	Black Slip Wasp (Pimpla rufipes) GL says a Black Slip Wasp (Pimpla rufipes). 2026-05-05 15:37:03 Fehraltorf Pimpla rufipes / Black Slip Wasp. This was the first observation.
Cretan Bright Bush-cricket (Poecilimon cretensis) Looks similar to a Cretan Bright Bush-cricket (Poecilimon cretensis), but this is France. 2026-06-10 10:27:56 Poecilimon cretensis / Cretan Bright Bush-cricket. Name is Cretan but this was seen in France?. This was the first observation.	Polistinae (Polistinae) Google Lens says this could be a Polistinae, eine Papierwespe, or some other kind of wasp. 2024-08-01 14:52:55 Polistinae. This was the first observation.
Polyommatus (Polyommatus) GL says a Common Blue butterfly (Polyommatus icarus). 2025-08-13 18:44:51 Klausenpass Polyommatus. First observed on 20 July 2025 in Schwändi.	Sapyga clavicornis / Gemeine Keulenwespe (Sapyga clavicornis) Wie gemein diese Namen sind, GL sagt das ist eine Gemeine Keulenwespe (Sapyga clavicornis) quote mit charakteristischen gelben Flecken. 2026-05-20 12:58:29 Fehraltorf Sapyga clavicornis / Gemeine Keulenwespe. This was the first observation.
Sarcophagidae (Sarcophagidae) GL says a flesh fly, belonging to the family Sarcophagidae and the genus Sarcophaga, most likely a common flesh fly (Sarcophaga carnaria). 2026-04-19 12:18:45 Sarcophagidae. This was the first observation.	Simuliidae / Kriebelmücke (Simuliidae) GL meint der Insekt auf meiner Hand ähnelt stark einer Kriebelmücke (Simuliidae). 2026-05-17 17:45:45 Alpweg Simuliidae / Kriebelmücke. This was the first observation.
Speyeria (Speyeria) TBI GL meint einen Perlmuttfalter (Gattung Argynnis oder Speyeria Fabriciana). 2026-08-09 15:26:33 Engadin Speyeria. First observed on 09 August 2026 in Engadin.	Great black wasp (Sphex pensylvanicus) GL says probably small solitary wasps, I say maybe Sphex pensylvanicus, the great black wasp or great black digger wasp. 2026-04-19 15:02:19 Sphex pensylvanicus / Great black wasp; Variant: Great black digger wasp. Sphex pensylvanicus was the subject of the first article on an insect written by a native-born citizen of the New World, when observations made by John Bartram on S. pensylvanicus were presented to the Royal Society in 1749 by Peter Collinson.. This was the first observation.
Stratiomyidae (Stratiomyidae) GL says this is of the family Stratiomyidae, commonly known as a soldier fly, potentially a black soldier fly (Hermetia illucens). 2026-06-01 10:23:29 Fehraltorf Stratiomyidae. This was the first observation.	Hesperiidae (Thymelicus) GL says Small Skipper (Thymelicus sylvestris) or an Essex Skipper (Thymelicus lineola). 2025-07-31 10:21:46 Thymelicus / Hesperiidae. This was the first observation.
Tipula paludosa / Wiesenschnake oder auch (Tipula paludosa) Eventuell eine Wiesenschnake oder auch Sumpfschnake (Tipula paludosa) an unserem Gartentür. 2026-05-13 10:57:56 Fehraltorf Tipula paludosa / Wiesenschnake oder auch; Variant: Sumpfschnake. trueBugs. This was the first observation.	Red velvet mite (Trombidiidae) Auf dem Tisch in Betlis, GL says a mite, specifically a red velvet mite (family Trombidiidae) or a snout mite (family Bdellidae). 2025-10-21 16:03:43 Betlis Trombidiidae / Red velvet mite. GL said it could also be a snout mite (family Bdellidae), and emphasized that they're arachnids, not insects. It added Red Velvet Mites (Trombidiidae): These mites are often bright red and have a dense covering of hair-like setae, giving them a velvety appearance. They are predators of small arthropods and their eggs. Snout Mites (Bdellidae): These mites are also predatory and are characterized by their elongated, snout-like mouthparts. They are typically found in soil and leaf litter.. This was the first observation.
Vespula vulgaris / Gemeine Wespe (Vespula vulgaris) ID Gemeine Wespe (Vespula vulgaris). 2025-08-09 12:16:31 Vespula vulgaris / Gemeine Wespe, die. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. . This was the first observation.	Wollschweber (Wollschweber) GL sagt ein Großer Wollschweber (Bombylius major), der in der Schweiz recht häufig vorkommt. 2026-04-22 20:33:07 Fehraltorf Wollschweber. First observed on 17 April 2026 in Switzerland.
Xylocopinae (Xylocopinae) A kind of Carpenter bee in the genus Xylocopa of the subfamily Xylocopinae - but there are hundreds of species. 2026-06-09 07:51:15 Provence Xylocopinae. This was the first observation.	Hylaeus (bee) White-tailed bee, likely a Gartenhummel, Bombus hortorum - look at that - thing? Tongue? Stinger? 2025-06-19 12:29:19 Fehraltorf bee / Hylaeus. First observed on 15 July 1991 in Camargue.
Hesperiidae (butterfly) Insects - Beautiful orange butterfly by Etna may be a Kleiner Fuchs aka Small tortoiseshell, Aglais urticae. 2025-06-01 12:45:33 Etna butterfly / Hesperiidae. First observed on 02 April 2023 in Yucatan.	Calopteryx (damselfly) At the north side of Levanto, GL says it's a Mediterranean demoiselle (Calopteryx haemorrhoidalis). 2025-10-10 15:15:13 Levanto damselfly / Calopteryx. This was the first observation.
Lucilia (fly) Drone Fly (Eristalis tenax), also known as the Common Drone Fly or Mistbiene. 2025-08-05 13:18:20 Fehraltorf fly / Lucilia. First observed on 29 June 2025 in Fehraltorf.	Midges (rder Diptera) Dozens of insects flying over the Luppmen by Pfaeffikon. GL says midges (Order Diptera but many species), because they swarm for a few days to a week and like water. Other possibilites are mayflies, caddisflies or fungus gnats. 2026-05-17 13:08:45 Luppmen rder Diptera / Midges. This was the first observation.
Eumenes (wasp) TBI, GL says a potter wasp, possibly from the genus Delta or Eumenes, such as Delta unguiculatum or Eumenes coarctatus. 2025-08-05 13:16:06 Fehraltorf wasp / Eumenes. First observed on 01 August 2024.	Ödemera podagrariae / Echten Schenkelkäfer (Ödemera podagrariae) GL sieht einen Echten Schenkelkäfer (Ödemera podagrariae). 2026-07-04 10:03:27 Fehraltorf Ödemera podagrariae / Echten Schenkelkäfer. This was the first observation.

Bees in general:

General: The species in the family Bombus are bumblebees, by far the most common. Halictidate and Lasioglossum are both commonly called sweat bees, so that's the second most common description after bumblebees

Honeybees:

General: In German, anything but a honeybee is a 'wild bee', English doesn't seem to use such a term.

Western honey bee / Westliche Honigbiene (Apis mellifera)

Apis mellifera / Westliche Honigbiene, die / Western honey bee; Variant: European honey bee. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. classic appearance of a honey bee, characterized by its fuzzy, brownish body, segmented abdomen, and visible wings, consistent with the Apis mellifera species. GoogleLens says the Western honey bee (Apis mellifera) is the most common species of honey bee worldwide and is found throughout Europe, including Switzerland, where it plays a vital role in agriculture as a pollinator. . First observed on 05 June 2024 in Fehraltorf.

Wild bees in Canton Zurich, 28 kinds::

General: Alle Bombus species are bumblebees, as I learned while researching our bees.

Tawny mining bee / Rotpelzige Sandbiene (Andrena fulva) GL says Tawny mining bee (Andrena fulva). 2026-02-26 14:03:00 Fehraltorf Andrena fulva / Rotpelzige Sandbiene, die / Tawny mining bee. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. Seen on one of the first warm days in February 2026 on the Winterflieder. This was the first observation.	Andrena minutula / Gattung der (Andrena minutula) GL sagt ein Rüsselkäfer (Familie Curculionidae), sehr wahrscheinlich aus der Gattung der Blattrandkäfer. 2026-07-20 12:35:37 Alpweg Andrena minutula / Gattung der. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. This was the first observation.
Oblong woolcarder bee, is a species of bee in family Megachilidae, leaf-cutter, carder / Spalten-Wollbiene (Anthidium oblongatum) Google Lens suggests Bombus pascuorum, the Carder Bumblebee - the fine black stripes match but I don't see the red-brown thorax - but don't have a better idea either. 2025-08-02 15:12:04 Fehraltorf Anthidium oblongatum / Spalten-Wollbiene, die / Oblong woolcarder bee, is a species of bee in family Megachilidae, leaf-cutter, carder. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. This was the first observation.	Hairy-footed flower bee / Gemeine Pelzbiene (Anthophora plumipes) GL sagt eine Wildbiene, sehr wahrscheinlich eine Gemeine Pelzbiene (Anthophora plumipes). 2026-05-07 16:18:34 Fehraltorf Anthophora plumipes / Gemeine Pelzbiene, die / Hairy-footed flower bee. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. First observed on 04 March 2026.
Four-banded Flower-Bee / Familie der (Anthophora quadrimaculata) GL says maybe a Four-banded Flower-Bee (Anthophora quadrimaculata). 2026-04-08 16:13:47 Anthophora quadrimaculata / Familie der / Four-banded Flower-Bee. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. . First observed on 08 April 2026.	Garden bumblebee / Gartenhummel (Bombus hortorum) White-tailed bee, likely a Gartenhummel, Bombus hortorum - look at that - thing? Tongue? Stinger? 2025-06-19 12:29:19 Fehraltorf Bombus hortorum / Gartenhummel / Garden bumblebee; Variant: Small garden bumblebee. Sources: [EN]: Wikipedia URL. Bees, Wasps and Ants (Hymenoptera), see also . First observed on 19 June 2025 in Fehraltorf.
Brown-banded carder bee / Veränderliche Hummel (Bombus humilis) GL says potentially a Bombus pascuorum (Brown-banded carder bee) or Bombus ruderatus. 2025-08-05 09:41:05 Fehraltorf Bombus humilis / Veränderliche Hummel, die / Brown-banded carder bee. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. This was the first observation.	Tree bumblebee / Baumhummel (Bombus hypnorum) This is hard to identify but could be a Tree bumblebee or new garden bumblebee, bonbus hypnorum. 2025-06-19 12:26:19 Fehraltorf Bombus hypnorum / Baumhummel, die / Tree bumblebee; Variant: New garden bumblebee. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia Wikipedia. A species of bumblebee common [on] the European continent and parts of Asia. See us_hypnorum. This was the first observation.
Heath humble-bee / Heidehummel (Bombus jonellus) Heidehummel as seen from the side. 2025-06-28 13:06:02 Fehraltorf Bombus jonellus / Heidehummel, die / Heath humble-bee. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. First observed on 28 June 2025 in Fehraltorf.	A kind of Bombus lapidarius / Steinhummel (Bombus lapidarius) Neben dem Fenster im ersten Stock war eine Steinhummel (Bombus lapidarius), der orange Hinterteil ist typisch. 2026-05-20 07:36:40 Fehraltorf Bombus lapidarius / Steinhummel, die / A kind of Bombus lapidarius. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. First observed on 30 March 2024 in Auslikon.
White-tailed bumblebee / Hellgelbe Erdhummel (Bombus lucorum) GL says a White-tailed bumblebee (specifically from the Bombus lucorum species complex). 2026-04-19 17:35:16 Bombus lucorum / Hellgelbe Erdhummel, die / White-tailed bumblebee. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. First observed on 26 July 2025 in Fehraltorf.	Bombus muscorum / Mooshummel (Bombus muscorum) Google Lens meint, das ist eine Hummel, entweder Gartenhummel, grosse erdhummel, oder Mooshummel - and what are those plants called again? PlantNet says Zaun-Wicke. 2025-06-23 18:12:00 Fehraltorf Bombus muscorum / Mooshummel, die. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. This was the first observation.
Common carder bee / Ackerhummel (Bombus pascuorum) GL sagt wahrscheinlich eine Ackerhummel (Bombus pascuorum). 2026-05-07 15:38:16 Fehraltorf Bombus pascuorum / Ackerhummel, die / Common carder bee. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. First observed on 02 August 2025 in Fehraltorf.	Early bumblebee / Wiesenhummel (Bombus pratorum) GL says likely an Early Bumblebee (Bombus pratorum) or a similar species like Bombus pascuorum or Bombus perplexus due to its fuzzy, yellowish-brown appearance. 2025-07-30 09:29:21 Bombus pratorum / Wiesenhummel, die / Early bumblebee; Variant: Early-nesting bumblebee. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. This was the first observation.
A kind of Bombus rupestris / Felsen-Kuckuckshummel (Bombus rupestris) Google Lens says The image shows a bumblebee, likely a Bombus rupestris or a similar species, foraging on a flower. 2025-07-26 13:53:12 Fehraltorf Bombus rupestris / Felsen-Kuckuckshummel, die / A kind of Bombus rupestris. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. This was the first observation.	Short-haired bumblebee (Bombus subterraneus) This dark one is probably a Short-haired bumblebee, Bombus ruderatus or Bombus lapidarius. 2025-07-22 11:01:59 Fehraltorf Bombus subterraneus / Short-haired bumblebee. Sources: [EN]: Wikipedia. This was the first observation.
Shrill carder bee / Waldhummel (Bombus sylvarum) Shrill carder bee. 2025-08-06 09:05:25 Fehraltorf Bombus sylvarum / Waldhummel, die / Shrill carder bee. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. This was the first observation.	Buff-tailed bumblebee / Dunkle Erdhummel (Bombus terrestris) Background - Hummel bei Wildertweiher, wahrscheinlich eine Dunkle Erdhummel aka buff-tailed bumblebee. 2024-06-04 09:43:55 Fehraltorf Bombus terrestris / Dunkle Erdhummel, die / Buff-tailed bumblebee; Variant: Large earth bumblebee. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. Common in Switzerland, says Google Lens. This was the first observation.
Large scissor-bee / Familie Megachilidae. (Chelostoma florisomne) GL meint wahrscheinlich eine Hahnenfuss-Scherenbiene (Chelostoma florisomne). 2026-05-22 17:08:28 Fanel/Chablais de Cudrefin und La Sauge Chelostoma florisomne / Familie Megachilidae. / Large scissor-bee. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. This was the first observation.	Southern bronze furrow bee / Verkannte Goldfurchenbiene (Halictus confusus) GoogleLens says this is a kind of sweat bee, hard to say what kind as there are 4500 types worldwide. 2025-07-25 15:41:46 Fehraltorf Halictus confusus / Verkannte Goldfurchenbiene, die / Southern bronze furrow bee; Variant: Confused sweat bee. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. First observed on 22 July 2025 in Fehraltorf.
Slender Mining Bee / Gemeine Furchenbiene (Lasioglossum calceatum) GL says a species of Cuckoo Bee, maybe Sphecodes albilabris or a Slender Mining Bee (Lasioglossum calceatum). 2025-08-17 15:15:12 Fehraltorf Lasioglossum calceatum / Gemeine Furchenbiene, die / Slender Mining Bee. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. This was the first observation.	Sharp-collared furrow bee / Pförtner-Schmalbiene (Lasioglossum malachurum) GL says a sweatbee, Lasioglossum malachurum is one possibility identified by image analysis. 2025-08-11 10:43:44 Lasioglossum malachurum / Pförtner-Schmalbiene; Variant: Feldweg-Schmalbiene / Sharp-collared furrow bee. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. This was the first observation.
Slender Mining Bee (Lasioglossum nigripes) GL says a kind of cuckoo bee, to me the Slender Mining Bee looks most similar. 2025-08-16 16:39:57 Fehraltorf Lasioglossum nigripes / Slender Mining Bee. This is the first kind of wild bee I've seen other than a bumblebee. Wikipedia says, 'The sweat bee genus Lasioglossum is the largest of all bee genera, containing over 1800 species in numerous subgenera worldwide.' -- didn't know it was a sweatbee.. First observed on 03 August 2025 in Fehraltorf.	Nomada posthuma / Familie der (Nomada posthuma) GL sagt diese Mothe bei Bahnhof Fehraltorf ist ein weißer Nachtfalter (Motte), sehr wahrscheinlich aus der Familie der Zünsler (Crambidae) oder der Erebidae (Bärenspinner) und schlägt 3 Spezien vor. 2026-08-18 19:36:46 Fehraltorf Nomada posthuma / Familie der. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. . First observed on 21 May 2026 in Fehraltorf.
Red Mason Bee / Rostrote Mauerbiene auch Rote Mauerbiene (Osmia bicornis) GL says a Red Mason Bee (Osmia bicornis), a common solitary bee found throughout Switzerland. 2026-04-22 11:58:14 Switzerland Osmia bicornis / Rostrote Mauerbiene auch Rote Mauerbiene, die / Red Mason Bee. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. GoogleLens says it's a common solitary bee found throughout Switzerland. First observed on 17 April 2026 in Fehraltorf.	European orchard bee / Gehörnte Mauerbiene (Osmia cornuta) Probably an Osmia cornuta, the European orchard bee. 2026-03-09 15:02:55 Osmia cornuta / Gehörnte Mauerbiene, die / European orchard bee. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. bees. [EN]: Wikipedia. This was the first observation.
Sphecodes albilabris / Familie der (Sphecodes albilabris) GL says a species of Cuckoo Bee, maybe Sphecodes albilabris or a Slender Mining Bee (Lasioglossum calceatum). 2025-08-17 15:15:12 Fehraltorf Sphecodes albilabris / Familie der. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. This was the first observation.	Violet carpenter bee / Große Blaue Holzbiene, auch Blauschwarze (Xylocopa violacea) GL meint eine Große Blaue Holzbiene (Xylocopa violacea). 2025-08-29 16:01:21 Wald Fehraltorf Xylocopa violacea / Große Blaue Holzbiene, auch Blauschwarze, die / Violet carpenter bee. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. This was the first observation.