Overview of insects seen at home or while traveling

In May 2025, I attended a tour of a 'wild bee' park in Effretikon organized by Natur und Umwelt Fehraltorf, and immediately bought a book about them. Then I felt it was time to promote insects into their own web pages, rather than just add a photo here while birding, without further information about them.

BAFG.ch says there are nearly 30,000 kinds of insects in Switzerland (and 40-60,000 is also possible). (The Smithsonian Institution says some 900 thousand different kinds of living insects are known. This representation approximates 80 percent of the world's species. The true figure of living species of insects can only be estimated from present and past studies. Most authorities agree that there are more insect species that have not been described (named by science) than there are insect species that have been previously named. Conservative estimates suggest that this figure is 2 million.) With 400 species of birds, you can try to see and recognize them all, but with the insects that's impossible. In Switzerland there are around 592 species just of bees!

Usually I use Google Lens to identify the insects, and mark them so. (I tried to use a bee ID app, but it told me it was a North American bee that doesn't exist in Europe, whereas if you tell Google that the photo is from Switzerland, it confirms that the insect is seen here.) Google Lens is probably correct 80-90% of the time, and it pays to compare the photo with Google's suggestions.

2026-05-30:

Google Lens 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...

Polyommatus icarus / Hauhechel-Bläuling, der; Variant: Hauhechel-Bläuling / Common blue butterfly; Variant: European common blue. [butterflies] [ZH]. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. First observed on 20 July 2025 in Schwändi.

2026-05-29 Fehraltorf:

Google Lens says most likely a Brown Argus (Aricia agestis) or a brown female Common Blue (Polyommatus icarus).

Aricia agestis / Kleine Sonnenröschen-Bläuling, der / Brown argus. [flies] Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia.

Google Lens 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...

Aricia agestis / Kleine Sonnenröschen-Bläuling, der / Brown argus. [flies] Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia.

2026-05-25 La Sauge:

Google Lens sagt, das ist ein männlicher Plattbauch (Libellula depressa).

Libellula depressa / Plattbauch, der / Broad-bodied chaser; Variant: Broad-bodied darter. [dragonflies] [ZH]. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia 🐉 (DE). [EN]: Wikipedia. This was the first observation.

Google Lens meint ein Männchen der Blauflügel-Prachtlibelle (Calopteryx virgo).

Calopteryx virgo / Blauflügel-Prachtlibelle, die / Beautiful demoiselle. [dragonflies] [ZH]. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia 🐉 (DE) 🐉 (CH). [EN]: Wikipedia. This was the first observation.

2026-05-24 La Sauge:

Google Lens says this is a Brimstone butterfly (Gonepteryx rhamni).

Gonepteryx rhamni / Zitronenfalter, der / Brimstone butterfly; Variant: Common brimstone. [butterflies] [ZH]. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. First observed on 10 August 2025.

2026-05-23 La Sauge:

Gomphus vulgatissimus / Gemeine Keiljungfer, die. [dragonflies] [ZH]. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia 🐉 (DE). [EN]: Wikipedia. First observed on 23 May 2026 in Fanel/Chablais de Cudrefin und La Sauge.

Google Lens says a Common Clubtail dragonfly (Gomphus vulgatissimus), known in German as the Gemeine Keiljungfer.

Gomphus vulgatissimus / Gemeine Keiljungfer, die. [dragonflies] [ZH]. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia 🐉 (DE). [EN]: Wikipedia. First observed on 23 May 2026 in Fanel/Chablais de Cudrefin und La Sauge.

Google Lens sagt eine Libelle aus der Familie der Flussjungfern (Gomphidae), sehr wahrscheinlich um die Gemeine Keiljungfer (Gomphus vulgatissimus).

Sphecodes albilabris / Familie der. [bees] [ZH]. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. This was the first observation.

Gomphus vulgatissimus / Gemeine Keiljungfer, die. [dragonflies] [ZH]. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia 🐉 (DE). [EN]: Wikipedia. This was the first observation.

Google Lens says this butterfly is a Comma (Polygonia c-album). TBI

Google Lens says this is a Spindle Ermine moth larva (Yponomeuta cagnagella). TBI

2026-05-22 La Sauge:

Google Lens meint wahrscheinlich eine Grosse Schwebfliege (Syrphus ribesli), auf jeden Fall eine syrphidae.

Family Syrphidae / Schwebfliege; Variants: Stehfliege, Schwirrfliege. [flies] [ZH]. First observed on 06 July 2025 in Fehraltorf.

Google Lens meint wahrscheinlich eine Hahnenfuss-Scherenbiene (Chelostoma florisomne).

Chelostoma florisomne / Familie Megachilidae. / Large scissor-bee. [beetles] Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. This was the first observation.

2026-05-21:

Misumena vatia / Veränderliche Krabbenspinne, die / White Crab Spider; Variants: A kind of Misumena vatia, Goldenrod Crab Spider. [spiders] [ZH]. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. First observed on 17 April 2026 in Fehraltorf.

2026-05-19 Fehraltorf, Effretikon Bienen-Park, Wildert:

Google Lens sagt eine Europäische Hornisse (Vespa crabro), die einzige in der Schweiz heimische Hornissenart.

Vespa crabro / Europäische Hornisse, die; Variant: Hornisse / European hornet; Variant: European hornet#2. [hornets] [ZH]. 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.

Google Lens sagt eine Westliche Honigbiene (Apis mellifera), auch im Bienenpark vorhanden.

Apis mellifera / Westliche Honigbiene, die / Western honey bee; Variant: European honey bee. [bees] [ZH]. 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.

2026-05-17:

At our house, Google Lens says this is a species of wolf spider (family Lycosidae).

Zoropsis spinimana / Nosferatu-Spinne, die / Nosferatu spider; Variant: False Wolf Spider. [spiders] [ZH]. 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.

Google Lens meint wahrscheinlich um eine Baumhummel (Bombus hypnorum) oder eine Ackerhummel (Bombus pascuorum).

Bombus hypnorum / Baumhummel, die / Tree bumblebee or new garden bumblebee; Variants: Tree bumblebee, New garden bumblebee. [bees] [ZH]. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia Wikipedia. A species of bumblebee common [on] the European continent and parts of Asia. See https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bombus_hypnorum. First observed on 19 June 2025 in Fehraltorf.

Bombus pascuorum / Ackerhummel, die / Common carder bee. [bees] [ZH]. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. First observed on 02 August 2025 in Fehraltorf.

Google Lens says, without doubt this time, that this is a Narcissus Bulb Fly (Merodon equestris), a species of hoverfly (Family Syrphidae). TBI

Pieris napi / Rapsweissling, der; Variants: Rapsweißling, Grünader-Weissling / Green-veined white. [butterflies] [ZH]. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. First observed on 31 July 2025 in Ticino.

Philopotamus montanus / Yellow-spotted Sedge; Variant: caddisfly. [flies] [ZH]. First observed on 17 July 2025 in Kaltbrunner-Riet.

Dozens of insects flying over the Luppmen by Pfaeffikon. Google Lens 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. TBI

Saw lots of these flying around the Luppmen, Google Lens says they are most likely honeybees, which is what they look like - I'm just surprised! TBI

Kleine Bienen am Wasser bei Pfäffikon, wahrscheinlich Honigbienen - habe sie hier nicht erwartet. TBI

Spider managed to capture and kill a bee! Several kinds do that, but I don't see one that looks like this one. TBI

2026-05-13 Fehraltorf:

Phaonia subventa / Ein Art der echten Fliegen / Flesh fly; Variants: A kind of Phaonia subventa, Muscid fly. [flies] [ZH]. Sources: [EN]: Wikipedia. Similar to a housefly, but the rear half is reddish, the eyes are separated by a black and gray part. First observed on 19 April 2026.

2026-05-12:

Bei Wildert habe ich diesen Insekt entdeckt, und Google Lens sagt sehr wahrscheinlich um den Soldatenkäfer (Cantharis rustica).

Cantharis rustica / Soldatenkäfer. [beetles] [ZH]. This was the first observation.

2026-05-11 Schwändi:

Google Lens sagt eine Gartenkreuzspinne (Araneus diadematus) in seinem Netz im Badezimmer in Thon in Schwanden.

Araneus diadematus / European garden spider; Variants: European garden spider cross orbweaver diadem spider orangie cross spider and crowned orb weaver, cross orbweaver, diadem spider. [spiders] [ZH]. Sources: [EN]: Wikipedia. First observed on 03 August 2025 in Fehraltorf.

Vespula vulgaris / Gemeine Wespe, die. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. . First observed on 09 August 2025.

2026-05-10 Fehraltorf:

Google Lens meint eine Graue Fleischfliege (Sarcophaga carnaria), auch als Gemeine Fleischfliege oder Aasfliege bekannt.

Sarcophaga carnaria / Graue Fleischfliege, die / Common flesh fly. [flies] [ZH]. 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.

2026-05-09 Fehraltorf:

Bombus pascuorum / Ackerhummel, die / Common carder bee. [bees] [ZH]. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. First observed on 02 August 2025 in Fehraltorf.

Google Lens meint eine Schnake (Familie Tipulidae), eine der größten einheimischen Mückenarten, tot gefunden auf der Terasse.

Schnake / Familie Tipulidae. [truebugs] [ZH]. This was the first observation.

2026-05-08 Fehraltorf:

Google Lens says this bee near USZ appears to be a Red-tailed bumblebee (Bombus lapidarius).

Bombus terrestris / Dunkle Erdhummel, die / Buff-tailed bumblebee; Variant: Large earth bumblebee. [bees] [ZH]. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. Common in Switzerland, says Google Lens. First observed on 04 June 2024 in Fehraltorf.

Bombus lapidarius / Steinhummel, die / A kind of Bombus lapidarius. [flies] Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia.

Gattung Calliphora / Blaue Schmeissfliege. [flies] [ZH]. First observed on 04 May 2026 in Fehraltorf.

Google Lens meint eine Mauer-Zebraspringspinne (Salticus scenicus), obwohl das hier mir ein bisschen kleiner als die 5-7mm Grösse aussieht - das Aussehen stimmt.

Salticus scenicus / Zebra jumping spider. [spiders] [ZH]. https://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mauer-Zebraspringspinne,https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Zebra_spider. Sources: [EN]: Wikipedia Wikipedia. First observed on 26 April 2026 in Fehraltorf.

2026-05-07 Fehraltorf:

Google Lens sagt eine Wildbiene, sehr wahrscheinlich eine Gemeine Pelzbiene (Anthophora plumipes).

Anthophora plumipes / Gemeine Pelzbiene, die / Hairy-footed Flower Bee. [bees] [ZH]. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. bees. [EN]: Wikipedia. First observed on 04 March 2026.

Google Lens meint ein Vertreter der Seidenkäfer (Familie Scraptiidae), sehr wahrscheinlich aus der Gattung Anaspis.

Seidenkäfer / Familie Scraptiidae. [beetles] [ZH]. This was the first observation.

Google Lens sagt wahrscheinlich eine Ackerhummel (Bombus pascuorum).

Bombus pascuorum / Ackerhummel, die / Common carder bee. [bees] [ZH]. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. First observed on 02 August 2025 in Fehraltorf.

2026-05-05 Fehraltorf:

Google Lens meint dass es höchstwahrscheinlich um eine Sächsische Wespe (Dolichovespula saxonica) handelt, gesehen beim Bienenstand am Bahnhof Fehraltorf.

Dolichovespula saxonica / Sächsische Wespe / Saxon wasp. [bees] [ZH]. Sources: [EN]: Wikipedia.

Google Lens says a Black Slip Wasp (Pimpla rufipes).

Pimpla rufipes / Black Slip Wasp. [bees] [ZH]. This was the first observation.

2026-05-04 Fehraltorf:

Google Lens says it's a snipe fly (family Rhagionidae), most likely the Downlooker Snipefly (Rhagio scolopaceus).

Rhagio scolopaceus / Downlooker Snipefly. [flies] [ZH]. This was the first observation.

Google Lens sagt Blaue Schmeissfliege (Gattung Calliphora).

Gattung Calliphora / Blaue Schmeissfliege. [flies] [ZH]. This was the first observation.

2026-05-02 Fehraltorf:

Pyrrhosoma nymphula / Zygoptera, die; Variant: Frühe Adonislibelle / Large red damselfly. [dragonflies] [ZH]. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia 🐉 (DE) 🐉 (CH). [EN]: Wikipedia. First observed on 05 August 2024 by the Lützelsee.

Google Lens meint Falkenlibelle, was ab April erscheint und andere Leute in Kanton Zürich gesehen haben.

Cordulia aenea / Falkenlibelle, die / Downy emerald. [dragonflies] [ZH]. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia 🐉 (DE). [EN]: Wikipedia. This was the first observation.

Coenagrion pulchellum / Fledermaus-Azurjungfer, die / Variable damselfly; Variant: Variable bluet. [dragonflies] [ZH]. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia 🐉 (DE) 🐉 (CH). [EN]: Wikipedia. This was the first observation.

Google Lens meint sehr wahrscheinlich eine Marmorierte Baumwanze (Halyomorpha halys), aka Stinkkäfer. TBI

Acanthocinus aedilis / Zimmermannsbock / Timberman beetle. [beetles] [ZH]. This was the first observation.

Google Lens says this is the genus Heliophanus, often known as Sun Jumpers.

heliophanus cupreus / Kupfrige Sonnenspringspinne, die / Copper sun jumper. [spiders] [ZH]. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. First observed on 19 June 2025 in Fehraltorf.

2026-05-01 Fehraltorf:

Google Lens meint ein Schrotbock (Rhagium inquisitor), der auch als Kleiner Zangenbock oder Spürender Zangenbock bekannt ist.

Rhagium inquisitor / Schrotbock / Ribbed pine borer. [beetles] [ZH]. This was the first observation.

2026-04-30 Fehraltorf:

Google Lens says a Nursery Web Spider (Pisaura mirabilis).

Pisaura mirabilis / Listspinne, die / Nursery Web Spider. [spiders] [ZH]. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. Saw this one on our doormat, not in the nursery room. First observed on 30 September 2025 in Fehraltorf.

Google Lens says a Downlooker Snipe Fly (scientific name Rhagio scolopaceus).

Rhagio scolopaceus / Downlooker Snipefly. [flies] [ZH]. First observed on 04 May 2026 in Fehraltorf.

Google Lens says a drone fly (Eristalis tenax), a kind that has used Batesian mimicry to scare away predators that think it's a bee.

Eristalis tenax / Mistbiene, die; Variants: Mistbiene, Schlammbiene, Drohnenfliege, Scheinbienen-Keilfleckschwebfliege, Schlammbiene / Common drone fly. [flies] [ZH]. 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 05 August 2025 in Fehraltorf.

4B2A1074Google Lens says a drone fly, a kind that has used Batesian mimicry to scare away predators that think it's a bee. TBI

2026-04-27 Fehraltorf:

Google Lens says a Zebra jumping spider (Salticus scenicus), one of the most common and easily recognized spiders in Switzerland.

2026-04-26 Fehraltorf:

Google Lens 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. TBI

Google Lens 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.

Salticidae / Jumping spider. [spiders] [ZH]. 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.

Google Lens says a jumping spider (family Salticidae), most likely a Zebra jumping spider (Salticus scenicus) or a closely related species like the Half-edged wall jumping spider (Menemerus semilimbatus).

2026-04-25 Fehraltorf:

Bombus pascuorum / Ackerhummel, die / Common carder bee. [bees] [ZH]. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. First observed on 02 August 2025 in Fehraltorf.

2026-04-24:

Google Lens says a species from the Grayling family (genus Hipparchia), specifically the Woodland Grayling (Hipparchia fagi) or potentially the Lesser Rock Grayling (Hipparchia genava).

Hipparchia fagi / Große Waldportier, der / Woodland grayling. [flies] Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. This was the first observation.

Hipparchia genava / Lesser rock grayling. [flies] Sources: [EN]: Wikipedia. This was the first observation.

Google Lens says based on the markings, this is a Speckled Wood butterfly (Pararge aegeria).

Pararge aegeria / Speckled wood. [flies] Sources: [EN]: Wikipedia. This was the first observation.

Google Lens says a parasitoid wasp, specifically likely to be Diplazon laetatorius. TBI

2026-04-23 Fehraltorf:

Google Lens days this appears to be a Golden Ground Beetle (Carabus auratus), or in German Goldlaufkäfer. TBI

Google Lens says a Small Tortoiseshell (Aglais urticae), known in Switzerland as Kleiner Fuchs.

Aglais urticae / Kleine Fuchs, der / Small tortoiseshell. [flies] Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. This was the first observation.

Google Lens sagt dies ist eine Wespenbiene (Gattung Nomada), eine spezielle Art von Wildbiene.

Gattung Nomada / Wespenbiene. [bees] [ZH]. Gesehen bei einem Spaziergang richtung Pistolschutzenhaus in Fehraltorf. This was the first observation.

Google Lens says a drain fly (family Psychodidae), also commonly known as a moth fly, sink fly, or bathroom moth midge.

Clogmia albipunctata / Abflussfliege; Variant: Familie der / A kind of Clogmia albipunctata; Variants: bathroom moth midge, bathroom moth fly, drain fly. [flies] [ZH]. 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. First observed on 30 September 2025 in Fehraltorf.

family Psychodidae / Drain fly; Variants: moth fly, sink fly, bathroom moth midge. [flies] [ZH]. This was the first observation.

2026-04-22 Fehraltorf:

Google Lens sagt ein Großer Wollschweber (Bombylius major), der in der Schweiz recht häufig vorkommt.

Bombylius major / Wollschweber / Large Bee-fly. [flies] [ZH]. First observed on 17 April 2026 in Switzerland.

Google Lens says a male Orange-tip (Anthocharis cardamines), known as the Aurorafalter in German.

Anthocharis cardamines / Aurorafalter, der / Orange tip. [flies] Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. This was the first observation.

Google Lens says this is a Holly Blue butterfly (Celastrina argiolus), seen near the reservoir.

Celastrina argiolus / Faulbaum-Bläuling, der / Holly blue. [flies] Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia.

Google Lens says a Red Mason Bee (Osmia bicornis), a common solitary bee found throughout Switzerland.

Osmia bicornis / Rostrote Mauerbiene auch Rote Mauerbiene, die / Red Mason Bee. [bees] [ZH]. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. GoogleLens says it's a common solitary bee found throughout Switzerland. First observed on 17 April 2026 in Fehraltorf.

2026-04-21 Fehraltorf:

Google Lens says most likely a species of dwarf spider or money spider from the genus Erigone (family Linyphiidae).

genus Erigone / Dwarf spider; Variant: money spider. [spiders] [ZH]. family Linyphiidae. This was the first observation.

Linyphia triangularis / Gemeine Baldachinspinne, die / Money Spider. [spiders] [ZH]. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. First observed on 18 September 2025 in Fehraltorf.

Google Lens says this is a wood gnat (also known as a window-gnat), likely from the genus Sylvicola. It is on our kitchen window...

genus Sylvicola / Wood gnat; Variant: Window gnat. [truebugs] [ZH]. I like the name window gnat, since I saw it on our kitchen window!. This was the first observation.

2026-04-20 Alpweg:

Google Lens says a type of Ichneumon wasp (family Ichneumonidae), a diverse group of parasitic wasps.

family Ichneumonidae / Ichneumon wasp. [bees] [ZH]. Ichneumonidae is a diverse group of parasitic wasps. This was the first observation.

Google Lens says these are water striders, likely from the genus Gerris or Aquarius.

genus Gerris / Water striders. [truebugs] [ZH]. 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.

Google Lens says a German wasp (Vespula germanica), also commonly known as a European wasp or yellowjacket.

Vespula germanica / Deutsch Wespe. [wasps] [ZH]. Sources: [EN]: Wikipedia.

Gonepteryx rhamni / Zitronenfalter, der / Brimstone butterfly; Variant: Common brimstone. [butterflies] [ZH]. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. First observed on 10 August 2025.

2026-04-19:

Google Lens says this is likely a member of the Pieridae family, specifically a Small White (Pieris rapae) or a Wood White (Leptidea sinapis).

Pieris rapae / Kleiner Kohlweissling, der; Variant: Kleine Kohlweißling / Small White, also known as the Cabbage White. [butterflies] [ZH]. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia URL. A common butterfly species in Switzerland. See https://insectic.com/butterfly-species-switzerland/#google_vignette. First observed on 17 August 2024 in Fehraltorf.

Google Lens says a White-tailed bumblebee (specifically from the Bombus lucorum species complex).

Google Lens says probably a Mason Bee (Osmia cornifrons), which is commonly known as a horned-face bee.

Osmia cornifrons / Mason bee; Variant: horned-face bee. [bees] [ZH]. This was the first observation.

Google Lens says this appears to be a member of the genus Hylaeus, commonly known as masked bees or yellow-faced bees.

Genus Hylaeus / Masked bee; Variant: Yellow-faced bee. [bees] [ZH]. This was the first observation.

Google Lens says probably small solitary wasps. TBI

Google Lens says probably small solitary wasps, I say maybe Sphex pensylvanicus, the great black wasp or great black digger wasp.

Sphex pensylvanicus / Great black wasp; Variant: Great black digger wasp. [bees] [ZH]. 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.

Google Lens says a flesh fly, belonging to the family Sarcophagidae and the genus Sarcophaga, most likely a common flesh fly (Sarcophaga carnaria).

2026-04-18 Fehraltorf:

Google Lens says most likely a European paper wasp (Polistes dominula) but not a yellowjacket.

Polistes dominula / Papierwespe, die; Variant: Haus-Feldwespe / European paper wasp; Variant: European paper wasp#2. [wasps] [ZH]. 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.

2026-04-17 Fehraltorf:

Google Lens says appears to be a Running Crab Spider (family Philodromidae), most likely belonging to the genus Philodromus.

Google Lens says a western honey bee (Apis mellifera), an extremely common visitor to early spring flowers like the grape hyacinth (Muscari) shown in the image.

Google Lens says a Red Admiral (Vanessa atalanta).

Vanessa atalanta / Admiral, der / Red admiral; Variant: The red admirable. [butterflies] [ZH]. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. First observed on 21 February 2023 in Staldenweiher.

Google Lens says based on its appearance and location in Switzerland, this is a jumping spider (family Salticidae).

Google Lens says a fruit fly, specifically within the genus Drosophila.

Drosophila melanogaster / Schwarzbäuchige Fruchtfliege / Fruit fly. [flies] [ZH]. Den deutschen Namen hier gibt's erst seit 1960. First observed on 22 July 2025 in Fehraltorf.

Google Lens says not actually a bee, but a Large Bee-fly (Bombylius major), often called a Wollschweber in German-speaking regions of Switzerland.

Bombylius major / Wollschweber / Large Bee-fly. [flies] [ZH]. This was the first observation.

Google Lens gives different answers, most recent Red Mason Bee (Osmia bicornis) or Hairy-Footed Flower Bee (Anthophota plumipes), but previously European Orchard Bee (Osmia cornuta).

Anthophora plumipes / Gemeine Pelzbiene, die / Hairy-footed Flower Bee. [bees] [ZH]. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. bees. [EN]: Wikipedia. First observed on 04 March 2026.

Osmia cornuta / Gehörnte Mauerbiene, die / European orchard bee; Variant: European orchard bee#2. [bees] [ZH]. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. bees. [EN]: Wikipedia. First observed on 09 March 2026.

Google Lens says a tree bumblebee (Bombus hypnorum).

2026-04-16 Fehraltorf:

Google Lens says a Bright-spotted Groundbug (Rhyparochromus vulgaris), a species of dirt-colored seed bug native to Europe and commonly found in Switzerland.

Rhyparochromus vulgaris / Bright-spotted Groundbug. [truebugs] [ZH]. 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.

Google Lens says a sweat bee, most likely from the genus Lasioglossum (often called furrow bees) or Halictus. TBI

2026-04-15 Fehraltorf:

Triochera annulata / Wintermuecke / Winter gnat; Variant: Winter crane flies. [flies] [ZH]. Wikipedia says long, thin, delicate insects seen in fall, spring, and sometimes winter. This was the first observation.

2026-04-08:

Google Lens says maybe a Four-banded Flower-Bee (Anthophora quadrimaculata).

Anthophora quadrimaculata / Familie der / Four-banded Flower-Bee. [bees] [ZH]. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. . First observed on 08 April 2026.

Google Lens says likely a Brown-striped Digger Bee (Amegilla garrula) or the Four-banded Flower-Bee (Anthophora quadrimaculata).

Amegilla garrula / Brown-striped digger bee. [bees] [ZH]. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. . This was the first observation.

Anthophora quadrimaculata / Familie der / Four-banded Flower-Bee. [bees] [ZH]. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. . This was the first observation.

Google Lens says this is a honey bee, likely a Carniolan honey bee (Apis mellifera carnica), which is a subspecies common in the region.

2026-04-05 Vienna:

Google Lens meint Schwarzbäuchige Tarantel (Hogna radiata), auch bekannt als Europäische Wolfsspinne.

Hogna radiata / Schwarzbäuchige Tarantel. [spiders] [ZH].

2026-03-25 Fehraltorf:

Oulema melanopus / Rothalsige Getreidehähnchen, das / Cereal Leaf Beetle. [beetles] [ZH]. 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.

2026-03-20 Fehraltorf:

Google Lens says fruit fly - or a masked hunter (Reduvius personatus), which I don't quite believe.

Drosophila melanogaster / Schwarzbäuchige Fruchtfliege / Fruit fly. [flies] [ZH]. Den deutschen Namen hier gibt's erst seit 1960. First observed on 22 July 2025 in Fehraltorf.

2026-03-19 Fehraltorf:

Google Lens says probably a Common Carder Bee (Bombus pascuorum).

Bombus pascuorum / Ackerhummel, die / Common carder bee. [bees] [ZH]. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. First observed on 02 August 2025 in Fehraltorf.

2026-03-17 Kaltbrunner-Riet:

A bee at the smaller tower at Kaltbrunnenriet, Google Lens says a European honey bee, I thought they were bigger.

Google Lens sehr unsicher, sagt eventuell Schmeißfliege (Calliphoridae) handeln, wie zum Beispiel die Goldfliege (Lucilia ser.).

Lucilia caesar / Goldfliege / Common Greenbottle Fly. [flies] [ZH]. 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. First observed on 21 October 2025 in Walensee.

2026-03-12 Fehraltorf:

Google Lens sagt Gehörnte Mauerbiene (Osmia cornuta).

Osmia cornuta / Gehörnte Mauerbiene, die / European orchard bee; Variant: European orchard bee#2. [bees] [ZH]. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. bees. [EN]: Wikipedia. First observed on 09 March 2026.

2026-03-11:

Pyrrhocoris apterus / Gemeine Feuerwanze, die / Fire bug. [truebugs] [ZH]. 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.

Google Lens says likely a type of Wolf Spider (family Lycosidae).

Google Lens says appears to be a wolf spider from the genus Pardosa.

2026-03-10 Fehraltorf:

Google Lens sagt Wespe (Common Wasp oder German Wasp). TBI

2026-03-09:

Osmia cornuta / Gehörnte Mauerbiene, die / European orchard bee; Variant: European orchard bee#2. [bees] [ZH]. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. bees. [EN]: Wikipedia. This was the first observation.

Osmia cornuta / Gehörnte Mauerbiene, die / European orchard bee; Variant: European orchard bee#2. [bees] [ZH]. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. bees. [EN]: Wikipedia. First observed on 09 March 2026. This was the earliest appearance in winter/spring/summer.

2026-03-06 Flies at home:

In Anna's bedroom, Google Lens says a Fleecy Jumping Spider (Pseudeuophrys lanigera).

Pseudeuophrys lanigera / Fleecy jumping spider. [spiders] [ZH]. spiders. This was the first observation.

In Anna's bedroom, Google Lens says a Fleecy Jumping Spider (Pseudeuophrys lanigera).

Pseudeuophrys lanigera / Fleecy jumping spider. [spiders] [ZH]. spiders. First observed on 06 March 2026. This was the earliest appearance in winter/spring/summer.

2026-03-05:

Google Lens says likely a Tree Bumblebee (Bombus hypnorum).

Google Lens says a greenbottle fly, likely from the family Calliphoridae or a similar species like Eudasyphora cyanella.

Google Lens says a cluster fly (Pollenia rudis) on our house.

Pollenia rudis / Gemeine Wurmfliege; Variant: Graugelbe Polsterfliege / Cluster fly; Variant: Common cluster fly. [flies] [ZH]. Sources: [EN]: Wikipedia. Seen February 2026 on out house. First observed on 26 February 2026 in Fehraltorf.

Bombus pascuorum / Ackerhummel, die / Common carder bee. [bees] [ZH]. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. First observed on 02 August 2025 in Fehraltorf.

2026-03-04:

Honeybees are active now in March 2026. TBI

Aglais urticae / Kleine Fuchs, der / Small tortoiseshell. [flies] Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. First observed on 23 April 2026 in Switzerland.

Google Lens says this insect on the bench in our back yard is a horsefly (family Tabanidae).

Family Tabanidae / Horsefly. [flies] [ZH]. flies. This was the first observation.

Google Lens says Hairy-footed Flower Bee (Anthophora plumipes) vorm Haus.

Anthophora plumipes / Gemeine Pelzbiene, die / Hairy-footed Flower Bee. [bees] [ZH]. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. bees. [EN]: Wikipedia. This was the first observation.

2026-03-03:

2026-02-26 Fehraltorf:

Google Lens says Tawny mining bee (Andrena fulva).

Andrena fulva / Rotpelzige Sandbiene, die / Tawny mining bee. [bees] [ZH]. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. Seen on one of the first warm days in February 2026 on the Winterflieder. This was the first observation.

Google Lens sagt Hainschwebfliege (Episyrphus balteatus).

Episyrphus balteatus / Hainschwebfliege; Variant: Marmeladen-Schwebfliege / Marmalade hoverfly. [flies] [ZH]. Sources: [EN]: Wikipedia. Wikpedia says this kind is the most abundant native hoverfly in Central Europe. First observed on 07 August 2025 in Fehraltorf.

Google Lens says Gemeine Wurmfliege (Pollenia rudis), auch bekannt als Graugelbe Polsterfliege oder Cluster Fly.

2026-02-24 Fehraltorf:

Gelber schmetterling TBI, zweites dieses Jahr, im Fehraltorfer Wald.

Macroglossum stellatarum / Taubenschwänzchen, das; Variant: Taubenschwänzchen / Hummingbird hawk-moth. [butterflies] [ZH]. 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.

2025-11-11:

Background - Bei den Honig-bienen - ich dachte zuerst, ich sehe einen Luchs, habe die Grösse falsch geschätzt.

Rotmilan bei den Honigbienen - ich habe nicht gewusst, dass sie den Kopf 180 Grad drehen können! TBI

Rotmilan bei den Honigbienen. TBI

Rotmilan bei den Honig-bienen. TBI

Rabenkrähe im Flug auf dem Weg zu den Honig-bienen. TBI

2025-11-03 Fehraltorf:

Google Lens says a long-bodied cellar spider, or Pholcus phalangioide hiding in our grill.

Pholcus phalangioides / Große Zitterspinne, die / Long-bodied cellar spider. [spiders] [ZH]. 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. . First observed on 28 September 2025 in Fehraltorf.

Google Lens says this is likely a False Wolf Spider or Zoropsis spinimana.

2025-10-31 Mostly Wildert:

Google Lens says this likely a ground cricket (family Gryllidae), seen at Wildert, Halloween 2025. My best guess is a Waldgrille (Nemobius sylvestris).

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

Polygonia c-album / C-Falter / Comma butterfly. [butterflies] [ZH]. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. Also classified as a Nymphalis c-album. First observed on 14 August 2025 in Fehraltorf.

Syrphus ribesii / Große Schwebfliege, die / Common Flower Fly. [flies] [ZH]. 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.

Google Lens says the bug in the image is a type of hoverfly, specifically a Common Flower Fly or Syrphus ribesii.

Google Lens says a Comma butterfly (Polygonia c-album).

Polygonia c-album / C-Falter / Comma butterfly. [butterflies] [ZH]. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. Also classified as a Nymphalis c-album. First observed on 14 August 2025 in Fehraltorf.

2025-10-30 Fehraltorf:

Google Lens says likely a Nosferatu spider (Zoropsis spinimana).

2025-10-22 Fehraltorf:

Google Lens says likely a Small White butterfly (Pieris rapae), still around on October 22 when the sun is out.

2025-10-21 Walensee:

Auf dem Tisch in Betlis, Google Lens says a mite, specifically a red velvet mite (family Trombidiidae) or a snout mite (family Bdellidae).

family Trombidiidae / Red velvet mite. [ZH]. 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.

Google Lens says probably a common flesh fly (Sarcophaga carnaria), seen in the flowers at Karin and Ruedis place.

2025-10-18 Fehraltorf:

Google Lens says this is likely a scuttle fly, also known as a hump-backed fly, from the family Phoridae.

family Phoridae / Scuttle fly; Variant: hump-backed fly. [flies] [ZH]. GL says it looks like a scuttle fly, but I think identifying it is impossible. This was the first observation.

2025-10-17 Fehraltorf:

Google Lens 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.

Anoplophora glabripennis / Asiatische Laubholzbockkäfer, der / Asian longhorned beetle; Variant: Asian long-horned beetle. [beetles] [ZH]. 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.

2025-10-15:

Google Lens says this is a noon fly, Mesembrina meridiana.

Mesembrina meridiana / Rinderfliege, die; Variant: Mittagsfliege / Noon fly. [flies] [ZH]. 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.

2025-10-12 Fehraltorf:

Vanessa atalanta / Admiral, der / Red admiral; Variant: The red admirable. [butterflies] [ZH]. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. First observed on 21 February 2023 in Staldenweiher.

2025-10-10 Levanto:

Google Lens says this is a common carder bee, scientifically known as Bombus pascuorum, seen in Gry's garden.

Bombus pascuorum / Ackerhummel, die / Common carder bee. [bees] [ZH]. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. First observed on 02 August 2025 in Fehraltorf.

Google Lens says this is a Long-tailed Blue (Lampides boeticus).

Lampides boeticus / Große Wanderbläuling, der / Pea blue,; Variant: Long-tailed blue, is a small butterfly that belongs to lycaenids. [flies] Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. This was the first observation.

Ha, I saw that it's a fly, Google Lens says drone fly, scientifically known as Eristalis tenax.

Google Lens says it's an Italian locust, scientifically known as Calliptamus italicus, a type of short-horned grasshopper.

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

Google Lens says it's a Violet Carpenter Bee (Xylocopa violacea), the largest bee in Europe.

Xylocopa violacea / Große Blaue Holzbiene, auch Blauschwarze, die / Violet carpenter bee. [wasps] Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. First observed on 29 August 2025 in Wald Fehraltorf.

Ancistrocerus gazella / European potter wasp; Variant: European tube wasp. [aphids] Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. This was the first observation.

Possibly one of the Potter wasps (or mason wasps) - things like the two wide black stripes, red wings and other markings should help, but Google Lens didn't have a great tip.

Potter wasps / Potter wasp. [beetles] Sources: [EN]: Wikipedia. This was the first observation.

Google Lens says a Speckled Wood (Pararge aegeria).

Pararge aegeria / Speckled wood. [flies] Sources: [EN]: Wikipedia. First observed on 24 April 2026.

Google Lens says a Wall Brown, scientifically known as Lasiommata megera.

Lasiommata maera / Braunauge, das / Large wall brown. [butterflies] [ZH]. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. This was the first observation.

Google Lens says a Geranium Bronze (Cacyreus marshalli). .

Cacyreus marshalli / Pelargonien-Bläuling, der / Geranium bronze. [flies] Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. This was the first observation.

Google Lens says a Lang's short-tailed blue (Leptotes pirithous) - but actually a pair of them.

Leptotes pirithous / Kleine Wanderbläuling, der. [flies] Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. This was the first observation.

At the north side of Levanto, Google Lens says it's a Mediterranean demoiselle (Calopteryx haemorrhoidalis).

Calopteryx hämorrhoidalis / Mediterranean demoiselle. [butterflies] [ZH]. Seen in Italy, may not appear in Switzerland. This was the first observation.

Background - my hike to observe insects and birds heading towards Bonassola.

2025-10-02 Fehraltorf:

Google Lens sagt, das ist eine Gemeine Feuerwanze (Pyrrhocoris apterus).

Google Lens sagt, das ist eine Gemeine Feuerwanze (Pyrrhocoris apterus). Ich glaube, die eine ist tot (bin wahrscheinlich darauf getreten) und die andere schleckt die Fluessigkeit auf - Natur kann brutal sein.

2025-09-30 Fehraltorf:

Google Lens meint eine Schmetterlingsmücke (Familie Psychodidae), eventuell eine Abflussfliege (Clogmia albipunctata).ä.

Google Lens says this is a Nursery Web Spider (Pisaura mirabilis).

Pisaura mirabilis / Listspinne, die / Nursery Web Spider. [spiders] [ZH]. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. Saw this one on our doormat, not in the nursery room. This was the first observation.

2025-09-28 Fehraltorf:

Tagpfauenauge ist noch hier bei 15C wo sonst wenige Insekten zu sehen sind.

Aglais io / Tagpfauenauge, das / European peacock; Variants: European peacock,, The peacock butterfly, peacock butterfly. [butterflies] [ZH]. 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.. First observed on 15 July 2025.

Google Lens says this is a Cellar Spider, commonly known as a Daddy Long-legs spider, or specifically Pholcus phalangioides.

2025-09-20 Wildert:

Uhoh, Google Lens says this is likely a German cockroach (Blattella germanica), but apparently a young one.

Blattella germanica / Deutsche Schabe, die; Variants: Küchenschabe, die Gemeine Küchenschabe / German cockroach; Variants: German cockroach#2, croton bug. [ZH]. 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.. First observed on 18 September 2025 in Fehraltorf.

Google Lens dachte, dies wäre eine Feuer-libelle aber die schwarzen Striche am hinteren Ende sehen für mich aus wie eine Frühe Heidelibelle.

Sympetrum fonscolombii / Frühe Heidelibelle, die / Red-veined darter; Variant: Nomad. [dragonflies] [ZH]. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia 🐉 (DE). [EN]: Wikipedia. First observed on 18 August 2025 in Fehraltorf.

2025-09-19 Schweiz:

Aeshna juncea / Torf-Mosaikjungfer, die / Common hawker; Variants: Common hawker, moorland hawker, Sedge darner. [dragonflies] [ZH]. 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.

2025-09-18 Fehraltorf:

Linyphia triangularis / Gemeine Baldachinspinne, die / Money Spider. [spiders] [ZH]. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. First observed on 18 September 2025 in Fehraltorf.

Tiny spider on our table in the back yard - at least it has 8 legs, so I guess it's a spider? TBI

Insect TBI on the window in my office at home in Fehraltorf.

Google Lens says this is a cockroach, most likely a German cockroach (Blattella germanica).

Google Lens says this is a Money Spider (Linyphia triangularis).

Linyphia triangularis / Gemeine Baldachinspinne, die / Money Spider. [spiders] [ZH]. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. This was the first observation.

2025-09-17:

Mitopus morio / Gemeine Gebirgsweberknecht, der / Saddleback harvestman; Variant: A kind of Mitopus morio. [otherarachnoids] [ZH]. 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.

Google Lens says a Marmalade Hoverfly (Episyrphus balteatus).

2025-09-16 Fehraltorf:

Bombus pascuorum / Ackerhummel, die / Common carder bee. [bees] [ZH]. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. First observed on 02 August 2025 in Fehraltorf.

2025-09-15:

Google Lens meint eine Herbst-Heidelibelle (Sympetrum meridionale), beim Greifensee.

Sympetrum meridionale / Südliche Heidelibelle, die / Southern darter. [dragonflies] [ZH]. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia 🐉 (DE). [EN]: Wikipedia.

2025-09-13 Klingnauer Stausee:

Google Lens 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.

Colias hyale / Goldene Acht, auch Posthörnchen, Kleines Posthörnchen, Weißklee-Gelbling, Gemeiner Gelbling, Gelber Heufalter, die / Pale clouded yellow. [flies] Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia.

Google Lens says this is a Bloody-nosed beetle (Timarcha tenebricosa). Saw it in Koblenz after the flamingos.

Timarcha tenebricosa / Tatzenkäfer, der / Bloody-nosed beetle; Variants: blood spewer, blood-spewing beetle. [beetles] [ZH]. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. This was the first observation.

Google Lens says this is a Bloody-nosed beetle (Timarcha tenebricosa). Saw it in Koblenz after the flamingos.

Timarcha tenebricosa / Tatzenkäfer, der / Bloody-nosed beetle; Variants: blood spewer, blood-spewing beetle. [beetles] [ZH]. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. First observed on 13 September 2025. This was the earliest appearance in winter/spring/summer.

2025-09-12 Fehraltorf:

Google Lens says a Common Snout-hoverfly, specifically Rhingia campestris, also known as the Heineken fly, auf Deutsch Gemeine Schnauzenschwebfliege.

Rhingia campestris / Gemeine Schnauzenschwebfliege / Common Snout-hoverfly; Variant: Heineken fly. [flies] [ZH]. Seen in my rock garden for the first time in September, 2025. This was the first observation.

2025-09-09 Fehraltorf:

Google Lens says this is Chimney Sweeper moth (Odezia atrata).

Odezia atrata / Schwarzspanner, der / Chimney Sweeper Moth. [butterflies] [ZH]. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. . First observed on 13 August 2025 in Klausenpass.

2025-09-06 Hirzli:

Argynnis paphia / Kaisermantel, der / Silver-washed fritillary. [butterflies] [ZH]. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. First observed on 18 July 2025.

Google Lens meint eine Blutrote Heidelibelle (Sympetrum sanguineum), in Wildert.

Sympetrum sanguineum / Blutrote Heidelibelle, die / Ruddy darter. [dragonflies] [ZH]. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia 🐉 (DE). Seen at Lützelsee. [EN]: Wikipedia. First observed on 05 August 2024 by the Lützelsee.

Bombus pascuorum / Ackerhummel, die / Common carder bee. [bees] [ZH]. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. First observed on 02 August 2025 in Fehraltorf.

2025-09-03:

Google Lens meint ein Weidenjungfer (Chalcolestes viridis).

Chalcolestes_viridis / Weidenjungfer, die; Variants: Weidenjungfer auch Gemeine Weidenjungfer, Gemeine Wiedenjungfer / Willow emerald damselfly; Variants: green emerald damselfly, western willow spreadwing. [dragonflies] [ZH]. 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.

Google Lens meint ein Weidenjungfer (Chalcolestes viridis).

Orthetrum cancellatum / Grosser Blaupfeil, der; Variant: Große Blaupfeil / Black-tailed skimmer. [dragonflies] [ZH]. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia 🐉 (DE). [EN]: Wikipedia. First observed on 31 July 2025.

Google Lens meint eine Blutrote Heidelibelle (Sympetrum sanguineum), in Wildert.

Google Lens meint eine Sumpfschrecke (Pseudochorthippus parallelus), in Wildert.

Stethophyma grossum / Sumpfschrecke, die / Large marsh grasshopper. [beetles] Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia.

Bombus pascuorum / Ackerhummel, die / Common carder bee. [bees] [ZH]. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. First observed on 02 August 2025 in Fehraltorf.

Google Lens meint eine Holzwespen-Schlupfwespe (Rhyssa persuasoria).

Rhyssa persuasoria / Holzwespen-Schlupfwespe / Sabre wasp. [wasps] [ZH]. 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.

2025-09-02 Fehraltorf:

Google Lens meint eine Holzwespen-Schlupfwespe (Rhyssa persuasoria), und mit dem langen Teil um Eier in Holz zu legen, wäre es ein Weibchen.

2025-08-30 Fehraltorf:

Stethophyma grossum / Sumpfschrecke, die / Large marsh grasshopper. [beetles] Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia.

Probably Stichopogon is a genus of small robber flies, seen at Wildert. TBI

Vanessa cardui / Distelfalter, der / Painted lady; Variant: Formerly in North America cosmopolitan. [flies] Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. First observed on 21 July 2016 in Fehraltorf.

2025-08-29 Wald Fehraltorf:

Google Lens meint, das Insekt auf dem Bild ist ein Tagpfauenauge (Aglais io).

Google Lens meint eine Große Blaue Holzbiene (Xylocopa violacea).

Xylocopa violacea / Große Blaue Holzbiene, auch Blauschwarze, die / Violet carpenter bee. [wasps] Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. This was the first observation.

Google Lens expresses no doubts this time - The bug in the image is a Drone Fly (Eristalis tenax).

Google Lens says perhaps the Light Emerald (Campaea margaritata) moth - on a window at Puregym.

Campaea margaritata / Perlglanzspanner, der / Light Emerald. [butterflies] [ZH]. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. Seen on a window at Puregym in Uster!. This was the first observation.

2025-08-27:

In Bad Vilbel sagt Google Lens wahrscheinlich eine Gemeine Wespe (Vespula vulgaris) oder eine Deutsche Wespe (Vespula germanica).

Vespula vulgaris / Gemeine Wespe, die. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. . First observed on 09 August 2025.

2025-08-23 Europa:

Vespula germanica / Deutsch Wespe. [wasps] [ZH]. Sources: [EN]: Wikipedia.

2025-08-22 Fehraltorf:

Google Lens says possibly a Scotophaeus blackwalli (also known as the Blackwall's ground spider).

Scotophaeus blackwalli / Kleine Mausspinne, die / Blackwall's ground spider. [spiders] [ZH]. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. This was the first observation.

Google Lens says a Triangulate Cobweb Spider (Steatoda triangulosa) in our ground floor bathroom.

Steatoda triangulosa / Dreiecks-Fettspinne, die / Triangulate Cobweb Spider. [spiders] [ZH]. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. This was the first observation.

2025-08-19 Pfäffikersee:

Google Lens says it's a Red-tailed Bumblebee, scientifically known as Bombus lapidarius, and I agree.

Bombus lapidarius / Steinhummel, die / A kind of Bombus lapidarius. [flies] Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia.

Google Lens says this appears to be a Speckled Wood (Pararge aegeria).

Pararge aegeria / Speckled wood. [flies] Sources: [EN]: Wikipedia. First observed on 24 April 2026.

Google Lens says this appears to be a Meadow Brown ( Maniola jurtina ).

Maniola jurtina / Große Ochsenauge, das / Meadow brown. [flies] Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. This was the first observation.

Crappy photo, so Google Lens says, correctly, it's hard to tell, but this might not be a butterfly. The image appears to show a piece of wood or a natural formation within foliage that resembles a face, rather than an insect. TBI

2025-08-18 Fehraltorf:

Crambus pascuella / Grasmotte / A kind of Crambus pascuella. [butterflies] [ZH]. Sources: [EN]: Wikipedia. This was the first observation.

Google Lens sagt wahrscheinlich eine Zünslerart, höchstwahrscheinlich eine Agriphila selasella.

Agriphila selasella / A kind of Agriphila selasella. [butterflies] [ZH]. Sources: [EN]: Wikipedia. This was the first observation.

Couldn't get focused, but Google Lens says the image appears to show a red dragonfly, which could potentially be a Red-veined Darter (Sympetrum fonscolombii).

Sympetrum fonscolombii / Frühe Heidelibelle, die / Red-veined darter; Variant: Nomad. [dragonflies] [ZH]. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia 🐉 (DE). [EN]: Wikipedia. This was the first observation.

Google Lens says with unusual certainty that this is a Small Heath (Coenonympha pamphilus).

Coenonympha pamphilus / Kleine Wiesenvögelchen, das / Small heath. [flies] Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. This was the first observation.

European hornet? Biggest one I've seen at home. TBI.

2025-08-17 Fehraltorf:

Google Lens says a species of Cuckoo Bee, maybe Sphecodes albilabris or a Slender Mining Bee (Lasioglossum calceatum).

Lasioglossum calceatum / Gemeine Furchenbiene, die / Slender Mining Bee. [bees] [ZH]. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. First observed on 03 August 2025 in Fehraltorf.

Google Lens says a Small Tortoiseshell ( Aglais urticae).

Aglais urticae / Kleine Fuchs, der / Small tortoiseshell. [flies] Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. First observed on 23 April 2026 in Switzerland.

2025-08-16 Fehraltorf:

Google Lens says a kind of cuckoo bee, to me the Slender Mining Bee looks most similar.

Lasioglossum calceatum / Gemeine Furchenbiene, die / Slender Mining Bee. [bees] [ZH]. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. First observed on 03 August 2025 in Fehraltorf.

TBI, wahrscheinlich Braune Waldvogel.

Aphantopus hyperantus / Brauner Waldvogel, der; Variant: Braune Waldvogel / Ringlet. [butterflies] [ZH]. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. Nach Wikpedia eine Art Tagefalter. Und ist es nicht lustig, wenn ein Schmetterling-Name 'Vogel' beinhaltet. [EN]: Wikipedia. First observed on 25 June 2024.

Google Lens says a kind of Tachinid fly, no definite species. Note the black and white stripes. TBI

Google Lens says a Tree Bumblebee (Bombus hypnorum) but mentions other possibilities, this one having the best color match.

2025-08-15 Fehraltorf:

Google Lens says a European paper wasp (Polistes dominula).

2025-08-14 Fehraltorf:

Vespula vulgaris / Gemeine Wespe, die. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. . First observed on 09 August 2025.

Google Lens says this is a Comma butterfly, specifically Polygonia c-album.

Polygonia c-album / C-Falter / Comma butterfly. [butterflies] [ZH]. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. Also classified as a Nymphalis c-album. This was the first observation.

Vanessa atalanta / Admiral, der / Red admiral; Variant: The red admirable. [butterflies] [ZH]. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. First observed on 21 February 2023 in Staldenweiher.

Google Lens says most likely a Dingy Footman moth.

Collita griseola / Dingy Footman moth; Variant: Dingy footman. [butterflies] [ZH]. Sources: [EN]: Wikipedia. This was the first observation.

2025-08-13 Klausenpass:

Google Lens says this is a Chimney Sweeper Moth (Odezia atrata).

Odezia atrata / Schwarzspanner, der / Chimney Sweeper Moth. [butterflies] [ZH]. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. . This was the first observation.

Google Lens says an Old World Swallowtail, also known as Papilio machaon.

Papilio machaon / Schwalbenschwanz, der / Old World swallowtail. [beetles] Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. This was the first observation.

Google Lens says the larva of the Drinker Moth (Euthrix potatoria).

Euthrix potatoria / Grasglucke, die / Larva of the Drinker Moth. [butterflies] [ZH]. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. This was the first observation.

Google Lens says a Common Blue butterfly (Polyommatus icarus).

Google Lens sagt ein Feld-Sandlaufkäfer, prüfen.

Cicindela campestris / Feld-Sandlaufkäfer, der / Green tiger beetle. [beetles] [ZH]. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. This was the first observation.

Chrysolina coerulan / Himmelblauer Blattkäfer / Blue Mint Beetle. [beetles] [ZH]. This was the first observation.

Google Lens says a fly, possibly from the family Ephydridae, commonly known as shore flies. TBI

2025-08-12 Klausenpass:

Google Lens says likely a Raetzer's Ringlet (Erebia christi).

Google Lens says this is a Burnet moth, likely a Six-spot Burnet (Zygaena filipendulae).

Zygaena filipendulae / Sechsfleck-Widderchen, das / Six-spot Burnet moth; Variant: Six-spot burnet. [butterflies] [ZH]. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. This was the first observation.

Google Lens says a Chalkhill Blue (Lysandra coridon).

Lysandra coridon / Silbergrüne Bläuling, der / Chalkhill blue. [flies] Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. This was the first observation.

Google Lens says this is likely a Swiss Brassy Ringlet (Erebia tyndarus) - on Anna's knee.

2025-08-11:

Google Lens says a sweatbee, Lasioglossum malachurum is one possibility identified by image analysis.

Lasioglossum malachurum / Pförtner-Schmalbiene; Variant: Feldweg-Schmalbiene / Sharp-collared furrow bee. [bees] [ZH]. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia.

2025-08-10:

Google Lens says likely a Phengaris rebeli, also known as the Scarce Large Blue or Rebel's Large Blue.

Phengaris rebeli / Scarce Large Blue; Variant: Rebel's Large Blue. [butterflies] [ZH]. This was the first observation.

Google Lens says likely a Buff-tailed Bumblebee (Bombus terrestris), PictureInsects suggests species that only exist in North America.

Google Lens says Brimstone butterfly (Gonepteryx rhamni).

Gonepteryx rhamni / Zitronenfalter, der / Brimstone butterfly; Variant: Common brimstone. [butterflies] [ZH]. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. This was the first observation.

Bombus campestris. [bees] Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia.

2025-08-09:

Google Lens says this is an Old World Swallowtail (Papilio machaon).

Papilio machaon / Schwalbenschwanz, der / Old World swallowtail. [beetles] Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. First observed on 13 August 2025 in Klausenpass.

Google Lens sagt wahrscheinlich um eine Feldwespe (Polistes dominula).

Google Lens sagt das ist eine grosse, aber ich sage eher eine Kleine Ochsenauge (Hyponephele lycaon).

Hyponephele lycaon / Kleine Ochsenauge, das / Dusky meadow brown. [flies] Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia.

2025-08-08 Fehraltorf:

TBI Irgendein Nachtfalter, bisher keine Ahnung was füreine Motte.

2025-08-07 Fehraltorf:

Google Lens says European garden spider (Araneus diadematus), also known as the cross orbweaver or diadem spider.

Cordulegaster boltonii / zweigestreifte Quelljungfer, die / Golden-ringed dragonfly. [dragonflies] [ZH]. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia 🐉 (DE). [EN]: Wikipedia. First observed on 29 June 2025 in Fehraltorf.

Sphaerophoria scripta / Gewöhnliche Langbauchschwebfliege, die / Long hoverfly. [flies] [ZH]. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. This was the first observation.

Google Lens suggests a European paper wasp (Polistes dominula).

Eristalis arbustorum / Kleine Keilfleckschwebfliege, die / European Drone Fly. [flies] [ZH]. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. First observed on 03 August 2025 in Fehraltorf.

Google Lens sagt wahrscheinlich eine Mistbiene (Eristalis tenax) oder eine Buschschwebfliege (Eristalis arbustorum).

Vanessa atalanta / Admiral, der / Red admiral; Variant: The red admirable. [butterflies] [ZH]. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. First observed on 21 February 2023 in Staldenweiher.

Google Lens says this is a Red Admiral (Vanessa atalanta).

Vanessa atalanta / Admiral, der / Red admiral; Variant: The red admirable. [butterflies] [ZH]. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. First observed on 21 February 2023 in Staldenweiher.

2025-08-06 Fehraltorf:

Argynnis paphia / Kaisermantel, der / Silver-washed fritillary. [butterflies] [ZH]. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. First observed on 18 July 2025.

Google Lens says Mistbiene.

Shrill carder bee. TBI

2025-08-05 Fehraltorf:

Google Lens says Speckled Bush-Cricket (Leptophyes punctatissima).

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

Ischnura elegans / Grosse Pechlibelle, die; Variant: Große Pechlibelle / Blue-tailed damselfly; Variant: Common bluetail. [dragonflies] [ZH]. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia 🐉 (DE) 🐉 (CH). [EN]: Wikipedia. This was the first observation.

Wasn't sure with that dark hinder, but Google Lens says a Western honey bee, scientifically known as Apis mellifera.

Google Lens says Bombus pascuorum (Common Carder Bee) or a Bombus hypnorum (Tree Bumblebee).

Bombus pascuorum / Ackerhummel, die / Common carder bee. [bees] [ZH]. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. First observed on 02 August 2025 in Fehraltorf.

Drone Fly (Eristalis tenax), also known as the Common Drone Fly or Mistbiene.

TBI - Google Lens says a potter wasp, likely belonging to the genus Eumenes. More specifically, it resembles species like Eumenes coarctatus or Eumenes mediterraneus.

Potter wasps / Potter wasp. [beetles] Sources: [EN]: Wikipedia. First observed on 10 October 2025 in Levanto.

Eumenes mediterraneus / Mediterranean Potter Wasp; Variant: A kind of Eumenes mediterraneus. [wasps] [ZH]. Sources: [EN]: Wikipedia. a kind of potter wasp. This was the first observation.

TBI, Google Lens says a potter wasp, possibly from the genus Delta or Eumenes, such as Delta unguiculatum or Eumenes coarctatus.

Potter wasps / Potter wasp. [beetles] Sources: [EN]: Wikipedia. First observed on 10 October 2025 in Levanto.

Delta unguiculatum / Große Lehmwespe, die / Great Potter Wasp; Variant: A kind of Delta unguiculatum. [wasps] [ZH]. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. a kind of potter wasp. This was the first observation.

TBI, Google Lens says a potter wasp, possibly from the genus Delta or Eumenes, such as Delta unguiculatum or Eumenes coarctatus.

Potter wasps / Potter wasp. [beetles] Sources: [EN]: Wikipedia. First observed on 10 October 2025 in Levanto.

Halictus ligatus / A kind of Halictus ligatus. [butterflies] Sources: [EN]: Wikipedia. This was the first observation.

Google Lens says potentially a Bombus pascuorum (Brown-banded carder bee) or Bombus ruderatus.

Bombus pascuorum / Ackerhummel, die / Common carder bee. [bees] [ZH]. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. First observed on 02 August 2025 in Fehraltorf.

2025-08-03 Fehraltorf:

Melanostoma scalare / Matte Schwarzkopfschwebfliege, die / Ladder-backed hoverfly; Variants: Chequered hoverfly, Ladder-backed hover fly. [flies] [ZH]. ID tip: black W. 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.

A type of hoverfly, and the yellow-black stripes match the Melanostoma scalare (Ladder-backed Hover Fly).

Google Lens 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.

Eristalis pertinax / Gemeine Keilfleckschwebfliege / Tapered Drone Fly. [flies] [ZH]. ID tip: black hourglass, tail is really tapered (conical). Sources: [EN]: Wikipedia. This was the first observation.

Eristalis arbustorum / Kleine Keilfleckschwebfliege, die / European Drone Fly. [flies] [ZH]. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. This was the first observation.

Eristalis pertinax / Gemeine Keilfleckschwebfliege / Tapered Drone Fly. [flies] [ZH]. ID tip: black hourglass, tail is really tapered (conical). Sources: [EN]: Wikipedia. First observed on 03 August 2025 in Fehraltorf. This was the earliest appearance in winter/spring/summer.

Eristalis arbustorum / Kleine Keilfleckschwebfliege, die / European Drone Fly. [flies] [ZH]. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. First observed on 03 August 2025 in Fehraltorf. This was the earliest appearance in winter/spring/summer.

Google Lens says European honey bee (Apis mellifera), I thought something else because it was tiny.

Google Lens says European honey bee (Apis mellifera), I thought something else becauseit was tiny.

Google Lens says likely a type of solitary bee, possibly a Slender Mining Bee (Lasioglossum nigripes).

Lasioglossum calceatum / Gemeine Furchenbiene, die / Slender Mining Bee. [bees] [ZH]. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. This was the first observation.

Google Lens sayslikely a species of Tachinid fly, specifically resembling Linnaemyia picta or Exorista larvarum. Note the stripes. TBI

Google Lens says it's a Drone Fly, specifically Eristalis tenax.

Google Lens says likely a Common Carder Bumblebee, Bombus pascuorum.

Bombus pascuorum / Ackerhummel, die / Common carder bee. [bees] [ZH]. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. First observed on 02 August 2025 in Fehraltorf.

Google Lens says probably a Ringlet butterfly, scientifically known as Aphantopus hyperantus.

Google Lens says likely a common rough woodlouse (Porcellio scaber).

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

2025-08-02 Fehraltorf:

Google Lens says Common Carder Bee, also known as Bombus pascuorum.

Bombus pascuorum / Ackerhummel, die / Common carder bee. [bees] [ZH]. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. This was the first observation.

2025-07-31 Schweiz:

Orthetrum cancellatum / Grosser Blaupfeil, der; Variant: Große Blaupfeil / Black-tailed skimmer. [dragonflies] [ZH]. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia 🐉 (DE). [EN]: Wikipedia. This was the first observation.

Vanessa atalanta / Admiral, der / Red admiral; Variant: The red admirable. [butterflies] [ZH]. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. First observed on 21 February 2023 in Staldenweiher.

Pieris napi / Rapsweissling, der; Variants: Rapsweißling, Grünader-Weissling / Green-veined white. [butterflies] [ZH]. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. This was the first observation.

Google Lens says Small Skipper (Thymelicus sylvestris) or an Essex Skipper (Thymelicus lineola).

Thymelicus sylvestris / Braunkolbige, der / Small skipper. [beetles] Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. This was the first observation.

Thymelicus lineola / Schwarzkolbige Braun-Dickkopffalter, der / Essex skipper. [beetles] Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. This was the first observation.

Google Lens 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).

Helophilus trivittatus / Große Sumpfschwebfliege, die / Large Tiger Hoverfly; Variant: A kind of Helophilus trivittatus. [flies] [ZH]. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. This was the first observation.

Helophilus pendulus / Gemeine Sumpfschwebfliege, die / Sun Fly. [flies] [ZH]. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. This was the first observation.

2025-07-30 Schweiz:

Google Lens says likely an Early Bumblebee (Bombus pratorum) or a similar species like Bombus pascuorum or Bombus perplexus due to its fuzzy, yellowish-brown appearance.

Bombus pratorum / Wiesenhummel, die / Early bumblebee; Variant: Early-nesting bumblebee. [flies] Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. This was the first observation.

2025-07-29 Schweiz:

Google Lens says a Marbled White butterfly (scientific name Melanargia galathea), and I agree.

Melanargia galathea / Schachbrett, das / Marbled white. [flies] Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. This was the first observation.

2025-07-26 Fehraltorf:

Bombus rupestris / Felsen-Kuckuckshummel, die / A kind of Bombus rupestris. [bees] Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. This was the first observation.

Xanthorhoe montanata / Schwarzbraunbinden-Blattspanner, der / Silver-ground carpet. [butterflies] [ZH]. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. Actually a moth - are they not included from the butterfly web site?. This was the first observation.

2025-07-25 Fehraltorf:

Nezara viridula / die Grüne Reiswanze / Southern green shield bug; Variant: southern green stink bug. [truebugs] [ZH]. 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.

2025-07-23 Fehraltorf:

Orthetrum coerulescens / Kleiner Blaupfeil, der; Variant: Kleine Blaupfeil / Keeled skimmer. [dragonflies] [ZH]. 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.

Gelbe libelle in Wildert TBI.

2025-07-22 Fehraltorf:

Drosophila melanogaster / Schwarzbäuchige Fruchtfliege / Fruit fly. [flies] [ZH]. Den deutschen Namen hier gibt's erst seit 1960. This was the first observation.

Google Lens says a solitary bee, likely from the family Andrenidae (mining bees) or Halictidae (sweat bees). TBI

TBI Some kind of bumblebee.

Bumblebee in garden. TBI

Bombus lapidarius / Steinhummel, die / A kind of Bombus lapidarius. [flies] Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia.

2025-07-20 Schwanden:

Trichius fasciatus / Gebänderte Pinselkäfer, der; Variant: Gebänderte Pinselkäfer / Eurasian bee beetle; Variant: Eurasian bee beetle#2. [beetles] [ZH]. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. This was the first observation.

2025-07-19 Bugs:

TBI, maybe Blue Damselfly, Enallagma cyathigerum.

Enallagma cyathigerum / Gemeine Becherjungfer, die / Blue Damselfly. [dragonflies] [ZH]. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia 🐉 (DE) 🐉 (CH). [EN]: Wikipedia. This was the first observation.

TBI, maybe Blue Damselfly, Enallagma cyathigerum.

Enallagma cyathigerum / Gemeine Becherjungfer, die / Blue Damselfly. [dragonflies] [ZH]. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia 🐉 (DE) 🐉 (CH). [EN]: Wikipedia. First observed on 19 July 2025. This was the earliest appearance in winter/spring/summer.

Coenagrion puella / Hufeisen-Azurjungfer, die / Azure damselfly. [dragonflies] [ZH]. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia 🐉 (DE) 🐉 (CH). [EN]: Wikipedia. This was the first observation.

A bend in the antennas says this is probably a bee TBI.

Honeybee. TBI

2025-07-18 Kanton Zürich:

Argynnis paphia / Kaisermantel, der / Silver-washed fritillary. [butterflies] [ZH]. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. First observed on 18 July 2025.

Argynnis paphia / Kaisermantel, der / Silver-washed fritillary. [butterflies] [ZH]. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. This was the first observation.

2025-07-17 Kaltbrunner-Riet:

Minois dryas / Blauäugige Waldportier, der / Dryad. [butterflies] [ZH]. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. Saw one in Kaltbrunner-Riet. This was the first observation.

Philopotamus montanus / Yellow-spotted Sedge; Variant: caddisfly. [flies] [ZH]. This was the first observation.

Calopteryx splendens / Gebänderte Prachtlibelle, die / Banded demoiselle. [dragonflies] [ZH]. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia 🐉 (DE) 🐉 (CH). [EN]: Wikipedia. This was the first observation.

2025-07-15:

Tagpfauenauge oder Aglais io, formerly inachis io in unserem Garten.

2025-07-14 Fehraltorf:

Philaenus spumarius / Wiesenschaumzikade, die / Meadow Spittlebug; Variant: Meadow froghopper. [truebugs] [ZH]. 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.

2025-07-06 Fehraltorf:

Musca domestica / Stubenfliege / Housefly. [flies] [ZH]. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. This was the first observation.

Butterfly. TBI

Google Lens meint eine Schwebfliege.

Family Syrphidae / Schwebfliege; Variants: Stehfliege, Schwirrfliege. [flies] [ZH]. This was the first observation.

2025-07-05 Fehraltorf:

2025-06-29 Fehraltorf:

Cordulegaster boltonii / zweigestreifte Quelljungfer, die / Golden-ringed dragonfly. [dragonflies] [ZH]. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia 🐉 (DE). [EN]: Wikipedia. This was the first observation.

Google Lens says this is a drone fly whose appearance imitates honeybees! This kind has only one pair of wings. TBI

2025-06-28 Fehraltorf:

Google Lens says White Admiral, specifically Limenitis camilla, seen by Wildert in Zuercher Oberland.

Limenitis camilla / Kleine Eisvogel, der / White Admiral. [butterflies] [ZH]. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. This was the first observation.

Bombus jonellus / Heidehummel, die / Heath humble-bee; Variant: small heath bumblebee. [bees] [ZH]. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. First observed on 28 June 2025 in Fehraltorf.

Seen from the blue bench in our back yard, Google Lens says Heidehummel (Bombus soroeensis), auch bekannt als Gebänderte Hummel oder Ilfracombe-Hummel.

Bombus jonellus / Heidehummel, die / Heath humble-bee; Variant: small heath bumblebee. [bees] [ZH]. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. This was the first observation.

2025-06-27 Fehraltorf:

Plagiodera versicolora / Breite Weidenblattkäfer, der / Willow Leaf Beetle. [beetles] [ZH]. 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.

Hoverfly on poppy in our garden. TBI

Hoverfly. TBI

2025-06-26 Fehraltorf:

Probably a kind of hoverfly, also called flower flies or syrphids, make up the insect family Syrphidae. TBI

2025-06-25 Fehraltorf:

Hermetia illucens / Schwarze Soldatenfliege; Variant: Familie der / Black soldier fly. [flies] [ZH]. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. This was the first observation.

2025-06-23 Fehraltorf:

Volucella zonaria / Hornissenschwebfliege, die / Hornet mimic hoverfly. [flies] [ZH]. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. This was the first observation.

Bombus hortorum / Gartenhummel / Garden Bumblebee; Variant: Small garden bumblebee. [bees] [ZH]. Sources: [EN]: Wikipedia URL. Bees, Wasps and Ants (Hymenoptera), see also https://observation.org/species/1700/observations/. First observed on 19 June 2025 in Fehraltorf.

2025-06-22 Fehraltorf:

2025-06-21 Fehraltorf:

2025-06-19 Fehraltorf:

Google Lens says this is a copper sun jumper or heliophanus cupreus.

heliophanus cupreus / Kupfrige Sonnenspringspinne, die / Copper sun jumper. [spiders] [ZH]. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. This was the first observation.

Mini-spider auf meiner Hose aufder Bank im Garten. TBI

2025-06-08 Stromboli:

Insects - Bee on Stromboli. TBI

2025-06-01 Etna:

Insects - Bee, TBI, by Etna.

Insects - bee, TBI, by Etna.

Brownish butterfly by Etna. TBI

Another interesting butterfly by Etna. TBI

Insects - Beautiful orange butterfly by Etna may be a Kleiner Fuchs aka Small tortoiseshell, Aglais urticae.

Aglais urticae / Kleine Fuchs, der / Small tortoiseshell. [flies] Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. First observed on 23 April 2026 in Switzerland.

Insects - Probably Kleiner Fuchs aka Small tortoiseshell, Aglais urticae at Etna.

Aglais urticae / Kleine Fuchs, der / Small tortoiseshell. [flies] Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. First observed on 23 April 2026 in Switzerland.

2025-05-26 Sciacca:

Insects- a black beetle. TBI

2025-04-12 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. [beetles] [ZH]. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. This was the first observation.

2025-03-01 Lanzarote:

Brauner Schmetterling auf Lanzarote. TBI

Hellgrüner Schmetterling auf Lanzarote bei Timanfaya. TBI

2024-09-28:

Background - Insects - Spotted lanternfly on the Skyline Drive - never heard of them before.

Lycorma delicatula / Gepunktete Laternenträgerzikade, die / Spotted lanternfly. [flies] [ZH]. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. Seen on the Skyline Drive - never heard of them before. This was the first observation.

2024-08-31 Wildert - Wald Fehraltorf:

Insects - Google Lens says probably a Blue-eye hawker dragonfly, Aeshna affinis, am noerdlichen Wildert-Weiher.

Aeshna affinis / Südliche Mosaikjungfer, die / Blue-eye hawker dragonfly; Variants: Southern migrant hawker, Blue-eyed hawker. [dragonflies] [ZH]. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. First observed on 24 August 2024.

Blue dragonfly at Wildert. TBI

2024-08-24 Klingnauerstausee:

Insects - Probably a Blue-eye hawker dragonfly.

Insects - looks like another that Google Lens said was a Blue-eye hawker dragonfly, Aeshna affinis.

2024-08-17 Fehraltorf:

2024-08-05 Luetzelsee:

Insects - paarende Libellen am Luetzelsee - dieses duennen sind anscheinend Damselflies, of the suborder Zygoptera.

suborder Zygoptera / Damselfly; Variant: Damselflies. [dragonflies] [ZH]. These are the smaller, thinner dragonflies. This was the first observation.

Pyrrhosoma nymphula / Zygoptera, die; Variant: Frühe Adonislibelle / Large red damselfly. [dragonflies] [ZH]. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia 🐉 (DE) 🐉 (CH). [EN]: Wikipedia. This was the first observation.

Insects - paarende Libellen am Lützelsee. TBI

Insects - rote Libelle am Lützelsee. TBI

Insects - rote Libelle am Lützelsee - nach Google Lens ist das ein Ruddy Darter oder Sympetrum sanguineum.

Sympetrum sanguineum / Blutrote Heidelibelle, die / Ruddy darter. [dragonflies] [ZH]. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia 🐉 (DE). Seen at Lützelsee. [EN]: Wikipedia. This was the first observation.

2024-08-03 Birds between home and Luppmenhof in Fehraltorf, plus Schmetterlinge:

Vanessa atalanta / Admiral, der / Red admiral; Variant: The red admirable. [butterflies] [ZH]. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. First observed on 21 February 2023 in Staldenweiher.

2024-08-02 Greifensee, Silberweise:

Background - Libellen im Greifensee bei Aaspitze.

2024-08-01 -insects:

2024-07-28 Fehraltorf:

2024-07-17 Fehraltorf:

Vanessa atalanta / Admiral, der / Red admiral; Variant: The red admirable. [butterflies] [ZH]. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. First observed on 21 February 2023 in Staldenweiher.

2024-06-25 ,25 Mettmen:

Background - noch ein Schmetterling oder Mothe ich kann nicht genauer nennen aber schön finde.

Background - noch ein schöner Schmetterling - Google Lens meint es könnte ein mountain ringlet, erebia epiphron, oder etwas ähnliches sein.

2024-06-20 ,21 Bannriet SG mit und ohne Tom Bischof:

Background - Libelle, Bannriet.

2024-06-16 Fehraltorf:

Syritta pipiens / Kleine Mistbiene, die / Thick-legged hoverfly. [flies] [ZH]. 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.

2024-06-15 Fehraltorf:

Harmonia axyridis / Asiatische Marienkäfer, der / Harlequin, Asian, or multicoloured Asian lady beetle. [beetles] [ZH]. 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 15 June 2024 in Fehraltorf.

Interesting insect - Google Lens says very hard to identify, but a kind of seed bug, Rhyparochromidae species, maybe genus Dieuches or Eremocoris. TBI

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

2024-06-14 Pfäffikersee:

Oberea ulmicola / A kind of Oberea ulmicola. [beetles] Sources: [EN]: Wikipedia. This was the first observation.

Oberea ruficollis / A kind of Oberea ruficollis. [beetles] Sources: [EN]: Wikipedia. This was the first observation.

Background - 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).

Oberea ulmicola / A kind of Oberea ulmicola. [beetles] Sources: [EN]: Wikipedia. First observed on 14 June 2024 in Pfäffikersee. This was the earliest appearance in winter/spring/summer.

Oberea ruficollis / A kind of Oberea ruficollis. [beetles] Sources: [EN]: Wikipedia. First observed on 14 June 2024 in Pfäffikersee. This was the earliest appearance in winter/spring/summer.

Background - noch ein seltsamer Insekt.

Background - bunte Raupe auf dem Weg.

Papilio polyxenes / Familie der / Fennel Swallowtail. [butterflies] [ZH]. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. Here a caterpillar - not sure, but they look similar. This was the first observation.

2024-06-05 2024 Fehraltorf etc:

Background - Bienen statt Vögel, wahrscheinlich eine Westliche Honigbiene aka European honey bee.

2024-06-04 2024 Fehraltorf etc:

Background - Biene verpasst bei Wildertweiher, aber es gibt einen kleinen grünen Insekt oben links, tbi.

Background - Biene bei Wildertweiher, tbi.

Background - Hummel bei Wildertweiher, wahrscheinlich eine Dunkle Erdhummel aka buff-tailed bumblebee.

2024-05-20 Klingnauer Stausee:

Background - Mohn mit Biene im Feld.

2024-04-14 Pfäffikersee:

Melolontha melolontha / Feldmaikäfer, der / Cockchafer; Variants: Common cockchafer, Maybug, Maybeetle, or doodlebug. [beetles] [ZH]. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. Wikipedia says 'a species of scarab beetle'.. [EN]: Wikipedia. This was the first observation.

2024-02-02 Asien:

TBI brown butterfly or moth in Laos.

2024-01-25 2024-01 Thailand:

I though it might be 'red whiskered', but Google Lens says sooty-headed bulbul. TBI

2023-06-19 ,20 Bolle di Magadino, Locarno:

Libelle. TBI

2023-04-02 2023-03,04 Yucatan:

Perfectly camoflouged butterfly at Ecotucan, Bacalar. TBI

Summer tanager. [flies] Sources: [EN]: Wikipedia. First observed on 01 April 2023 in Yucatan.

2023-04-01 2023-03,04 Yucatan:

Summer tanager. [flies] Sources: [EN]: Wikipedia. This was the first observation.

2023-03-16 2023-03 Madeira:

Danaus plexippus / Monarchfalter, der / Monarch butterfly; Variant: Simply monarch. [butterflies] [ZH]. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. butterflies. [EN]: Wikipedia. This was the first observation.

2023-02-21 2023-02 Fehraltorf:

Vanessa atalanta / Admiral, der / Red admiral; Variant: The red admirable. [butterflies] [ZH]. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. This was the first observation.

2022-08-17 2022-07,08 Fehraltorf, Oberland:

Papilio machaon / Schwalbenschwanz, der / Old World swallowtail. [beetles] Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. First observed on 13 August 2025 in Klausenpass.

2022-08-14 2022-07,08 Fehraltorf, Oberland:

Weisse Spinne vorm Haus in Fehraltorf. TBI

2022-07-18 Greifensee, Aa:

Kohlmeise mit leckem Insekt beim Aa, Greifensee. TBI

2022-06-25 La Sauge:

Ein von vielen Libellen-Arten in La Sauge. TBI

2021-07-28 2021-07 St Moritz, Engadin:

Wintergoldhähnchen, bever - mit insekt, etwas gelb am kopf sichtbar -. TBI

Wintergoldhähnchen, bever - mit insekt -. TBI

2020-07-11 Wald Fehraltorf:

Sparrow with insect at home. TBI

2020-04-23 Observations for web:

Mönchsgrasmücke weibchen sieht eine raupe. TBI

Mönchsgrasmücke weibchen hat die raupe im schnabel. TBI

2019-11-22 2019-11 Morocco:

MBI says a greater falmingo, in which case it hasn't been able to show its full colors. TBI

2016-09-10 2016-09,10 Namibia:

MerlinBirdID didn't figure it out, but Google Lens says it's an African red-eyed bulbul, which makes sense to me - at our camping spot in Namibia. TBI

2016-07-21 Fehraltorf:

Vanessa cardui / Distelfalter, der / Painted lady; Variant: Formerly in North America cosmopolitan. [flies] Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. This was the first observation.

2016-05-29 Fehraltorf:

2015-06-03 2015-05,06 Iceland:

Whooper swans / Whooper swan. [flies] Sources: [EN]: Wikipedia. This was the first observation.

1991-07-15 Camargue - the date is just a guess, was there until August:

Nachtreiher in Camargue - the only bird I've been able to identify so far looking back on those old photos. TBI

Dragonflies at Camargue - but the picture isn't good enough to identify them. TBI

Bees and other insects from Switzerland:

Other insects than bees:

General:

beetles:

General:

Acanthocinus aedilis / Zimmermannsbock / Timberman beetle. [beetles] [ZH]. Observed 2026-05-02 Fehraltorf .
Anoplophora glabripennis / Asiatische Laubholzbockkäfer, der / Asian longhorned beetle; Variant: Asian long-horned beetle. [beetles] [ZH]. Observed 2025-10-17 Fehraltorf . 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.
Cantharis rustica / Soldatenkäfer. [beetles] [ZH]. Observed 2026-05-12 .
Chelostoma florisomne / Familie Megachilidae. / Large scissor-bee. [beetles] Observed 2026-05-22 La Sauge . Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia.
Chrysolina coerulan / Himmelblauer Blattkäfer / Blue Mint Beetle. [beetles] [ZH]. Observed 2025-08-13 Klausenpass .
Cicindela campestris / Feld-Sandlaufkäfer, der / Green tiger beetle. [beetles] [ZH]. Observed 2025-08-13 Klausenpass . Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia.
Epomis / Laufkäfer; Variant: Gattung Chlaenius.. [beetles] Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia.
Harmonia axyridis / Asiatische Marienkäfer, der / Harlequin, Asian, or multicoloured Asian lady beetle. [beetles] [ZH]. Observed 2024-06-15 Fehraltorf . 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.
Höhlenkäfer. [beetles]
Lilioceris lilii / Lilienhähnchen, das / Scarlet lily beetle; Variants: Scarlet lily beetle, red lily beetle,, Lily leaf beetle, red lily beetle or lily leaf beetle. [beetles] [ZH]. Observed 2025-04-12 Walensee . Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia.
Melolontha melolontha / Feldmaikäfer, der / Cockchafer; Variants: Common cockchafer, Maybug, Maybeetle, or doodlebug. [beetles] [ZH]. Observed 2024-04-14 Pfäffikersee . Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. Wikipedia says 'a species of scarab beetle'.. [EN]: Wikipedia.
Oberea ruficollis / A kind of Oberea ruficollis. [beetles] Observed 2024-06-14 Pfäffikersee . Sources: [EN]: Wikipedia.
Oberea ulmicola / A kind of Oberea ulmicola. [beetles] Observed 2024-06-14 Pfäffikersee . Sources: [EN]: Wikipedia.
Oulema melanopus / Rothalsige Getreidehähnchen, das / Cereal Leaf Beetle. [beetles] [ZH]. Observed 2026-03-25 Fehraltorf . 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..
Papilio machaon / Schwalbenschwanz, der / Old World swallowtail. [beetles] Observed 2025-08-13 Klausenpass . Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia.
Plagiodera versicolora / Breite Weidenblattkäfer, der / Willow Leaf Beetle. [beetles] [ZH]. Observed 2025-06-27 Fehraltorf . 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..
Potter wasps / Potter wasp. [beetles] Observed 2025-10-10 Levanto . Sources: [EN]: Wikipedia.
Prachtkäfer. [beetles] Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. .
Propylea quatuordecimpunctata / Vierzehnpunkt-Marienkäfer. [beetles] [ZH].
Rhagium inquisitor / Schrotbock / Ribbed pine borer. [beetles] [ZH]. Observed 2026-05-01 Fehraltorf .
Seidenkäfer / Familie Scraptiidae. [beetles] [ZH]. Observed 2026-05-07 Fehraltorf .
Stethophyma grossum / Sumpfschrecke, die / Large marsh grasshopper. [beetles] Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia.
Thymelicus lineola / Schwarzkolbige Braun-Dickkopffalter, der / Essex skipper. [beetles] Observed 2025-07-31 Schweiz . Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia.
Thymelicus sylvestris / Braunkolbige, der / Small skipper. [beetles] Observed 2025-07-31 Schweiz . Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia.
Timarcha tenebricosa / Tatzenkäfer, der / Bloody-nosed beetle; Variants: blood spewer, blood-spewing beetle. [beetles] [ZH]. Observed 2025-09-13 Klingnauer Stausee . Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia.
Trichius fasciatus / Gebänderte Pinselkäfer, der; Variant: Gebänderte Pinselkäfer / Eurasian bee beetle; Variant: Eurasian bee beetle#2. [beetles] [ZH]. Observed 2025-07-20 Schwanden . Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia.
dragonflies:
General: Observed 88 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.
# Calopteryx splendens caprai / Italienische Prachtlibelle (Unterart). [dragonflies] [ZH].
# Calopteryx virgo meridionalis / Südliche Prachtlibelle (Unterart). [dragonflies] [ZH].
Aeshna affinis / Südliche Mosaikjungfer, die / Blue-eye hawker dragonfly; Variants: Southern migrant hawker, Blue-eyed hawker. [dragonflies] [ZH]. Observed 2024-08-24 Klingnauerstausee . Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia.
Aeshna caerulea / Alpen-Mosaikjungfer, die / Azure hawker. [dragonflies] [ZH]. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia 🐉 (DE). [EN]: Wikipedia.
Aeshna cyanea / Blaugrüne Mosaikjungfer, die / Southern hawker; Variant: Blue hawker. [dragonflies] [ZH]. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia 🐉 (DE). [EN]: Wikipedia.
Aeshna grandis / Braune Mosaikjungfer, die / Brown hawker. [dragonflies] [ZH]. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia 🐉 (DE). [EN]: Wikipedia.
Aeshna isoceles / Keilfleck-Mosaikjungfer. [dragonflies] [ZH]. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia 🐉 (DE). [EN]: Wikipedia.
Aeshna juncea / Torf-Mosaikjungfer, die / Common hawker; Variants: Common hawker, moorland hawker, Sedge darner. [dragonflies] [ZH]. Observed 2025-09-19 Schweiz . 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..
Aeshna mixta / Herbst-Mosaikjungfer, die / Migrant hawker. [dragonflies] [ZH]. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia.
Aeshna subarctica elisabethae / Hochmoor-Mosaikjungfer. [dragonflies] [ZH]. Sources: [DE]: 🐉 (DE). .
Aeshna viridis / Grüne Mosaikjungfer, die. [dragonflies] [ZH]. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia.
Anax ephippiger / Schabracken-Königslibelle, die; Variant: Schabrackenlibelle / Vagrant emperor. [dragonflies] [ZH]. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia 🐉 (DE). [EN]: Wikipedia.
Anax imperator / Anisoptera, die; Variant: Große Königslibelle / Emperor dragonfly; Variant: Blue emperor. [dragonflies] [ZH]. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia.
Anax parthenope / Kleine Königslibelle, die / Lesser emperor. [dragonflies] [ZH]. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia 🐉 (DE). [EN]: Wikipedia.
Boyeria irene / Westliche Geisterlibelle, die. [dragonflies] [ZH]. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia 🐉 (DE). .
Brachytron pratense / Früher Schilfjäger, der; Variant: Frühe Schilfjäger. [dragonflies] [ZH]. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia 🐉 (DE). [EN]: Wikipedia.
Calopteryx splendens / Gebänderte Prachtlibelle, die / Banded demoiselle. [dragonflies] [ZH]. Observed 2025-07-17 Kaltbrunner-Riet . Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia 🐉 (DE) 🐉 (CH). [EN]: Wikipedia.
Calopteryx virgo / Blauflügel-Prachtlibelle, die / Beautiful demoiselle. [dragonflies] [ZH]. Observed 2026-05-25 La Sauge . Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia 🐉 (DE) 🐉 (CH). [EN]: Wikipedia.
Calopteryx xanthostoma / Westliche Prachtlibelle, die; Variant: Südwestliche Prachtlibelle / Western demoiselle; Variant: Yellow-tailed demoiselle. [dragonflies] [ZH]. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia.
Ceriagrion tenellum / Zarte Rubinjungfer, die; Variant: Scharlachlibelle / Small red damselfly. [dragonflies] [ZH]. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia 🐉 (DE) 🐉 (CH). [EN]: Wikipedia.
Chalcolestes viridis / Westliche Weidenjungfer, die; Variant: Weidenjungfer auch Gemeine Weidenjungfer. [dragonflies] [ZH]. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia 🐉 (CH). [EN]: Wikipedia.
Chalcolestes_viridis / Weidenjungfer, die; Variants: Weidenjungfer auch Gemeine Weidenjungfer, Gemeine Wiedenjungfer / Willow emerald damselfly; Variants: green emerald damselfly, western willow spreadwing. [dragonflies] [ZH]. Observed 2025-09-03 . 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.
Coenagrion armatum / Hauben-Azurjungfer, die / Norfolk damselfly, Nofolk coenagrion; Variant: Dark bluet. [dragonflies] [ZH]. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia 🐉 (DE). [EN]: Wikipedia.
Coenagrion hastulatum / Speer-Azurjungfer, die / Northern damselfly; Variant: Spearhead bluet. [dragonflies] [ZH]. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia 🐉 (DE) 🐉 (CH). [EN]: Wikipedia.
Coenagrion hylas / Sibirische ; Variant: Bileks Azurjungfer. [dragonflies] [ZH]. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia 🐉 (DE). .
Coenagrion lunulatum / Mond-Azurjungfer, die / Irish damselfly; Variant: Crescent bluet. [dragonflies] [ZH]. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia 🐉 (DE) 🐉 (CH). [EN]: Wikipedia.
Coenagrion mercuriale / Helm-Azurjungfer, die / Southern damselfly. [dragonflies] [ZH]. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia 🐉 (DE) 🐉 (CH). [EN]: Wikipedia.
Coenagrion ornatum / Vogel-Azurjungfer, die. [dragonflies] [ZH]. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia 🐉 (DE) 🐉 (CH). [EN]: Wikipedia.
Coenagrion puella / Hufeisen-Azurjungfer, die / Azure damselfly. [dragonflies] [ZH]. Observed 2025-07-19 Bugs . Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia 🐉 (DE) 🐉 (CH). [EN]: Wikipedia.
Coenagrion pulchellum / Fledermaus-Azurjungfer, die / Variable damselfly; Variant: Variable bluet. [dragonflies] [ZH]. Observed 2026-05-02 Fehraltorf . Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia 🐉 (DE) 🐉 (CH). [EN]: Wikipedia.
Coenagrion scitulum / Gabel-Azurjungfer, die / Dainty damselfly. [dragonflies] [ZH]. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia 🐉 (DE) 🐉 (CH). [EN]: Wikipedia.
Cordulegaster bidentata / Gestreifte Quelljungfer, die. [dragonflies] [ZH]. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia 🐉 (DE). [EN]: Wikipedia.
Cordulegaster boltonii / zweigestreifte Quelljungfer, die / Golden-ringed dragonfly. [dragonflies] [ZH]. Observed 2025-06-29 Fehraltorf . Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia 🐉 (DE). [EN]: Wikipedia.
Cordulia aenea / Falkenlibelle, die / Downy emerald. [dragonflies] [ZH]. Observed 2026-05-02 Fehraltorf . Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia 🐉 (DE). [EN]: Wikipedia.
Crocothemis erythraea / Feuerlibelle, die / Scarlet dragonfly. [dragonflies] [ZH]. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia 🐉 (DE). [EN]: Wikipedia.
Enallagma cyathigerum / Gemeine Becherjungfer, die / Blue Damselfly. [dragonflies] [ZH]. Observed 2025-07-19 Bugs . Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia 🐉 (DE) 🐉 (CH). [EN]: Wikipedia.
Epitheca bimaculata / Zweifleck, der / Eurasian baskettail; Variant: Two-spotted dragonfly. [dragonflies] [ZH]. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia 🐉 (DE). [EN]: Wikipedia.
Erythromma lindenii / Saphirauge / Pokaljungfer, die; Variant: Pokaljungfer / Goblet-marked damselfly. [dragonflies] [ZH]. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia 🐉 (CH). [EN]: Wikipedia.
Erythromma najas / Grosses Granatauge, das; Variant: Große Granatauge / Red-eyed damselfly. [dragonflies] [ZH]. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia 🐉 (DE) 🐉 (CH). [EN]: Wikipedia.
Erythromma viridulum / Kleines Granatauge, das; Variant: Kleine Granatauge / Small red-eyed damselfly. [dragonflies] [ZH]. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia 🐉 (DE) 🐉 (CH). [EN]: Wikipedia.
Gomphus pulchellus / Westliche Keiljungfer, die. [dragonflies] [ZH]. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia 🐉 (DE). [EN]: Wikipedia.
Gomphus simillimus / Gelbe Keiljungfer. [dragonflies] [ZH]. Sources: [DE]: 🐉 (DE). .
Gomphus vulgatissimus / Gemeine Keiljungfer, die. [dragonflies] [ZH]. Observed 2026-05-23 La Sauge . Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia 🐉 (DE). [EN]: Wikipedia.
Hamadryas julitta / Yucatan Cracker. [dragonflies] [ZH]. Sources: [EN]: URL. See also https://www.butterfliesandmoths.org/species/hamadryas-julitta.
Ischnura elegans / Grosse Pechlibelle, die; Variant: Große Pechlibelle / Blue-tailed damselfly; Variant: Common bluetail. [dragonflies] [ZH]. Observed 2025-08-05 Fehraltorf . Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia 🐉 (DE) 🐉 (CH). [EN]: Wikipedia.
Ischnura pumilio / Kleine Pechlibelle, die / Scarce blue-tailed damselfly; Variant: Small bluetail. [dragonflies] [ZH]. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia 🐉 (DE) 🐉 (CH). [EN]: Wikipedia.
Lestes barbarus / Südliche Binsenjungfer, die / A kind of Lestes barbarus. [dragonflies] [ZH]. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia 🐉 (DE) 🐉 (CH). [EN]: Wikipedia.
Lestes dryas / Glänzende Binsenjungfer, die / A kind of Lestes dryas. [dragonflies] [ZH]. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia 🐉 (DE) 🐉 (CH). [EN]: Wikipedia.
Lestes macrostigma / Dunkle Binsenjungfer, die / A kind of Lestes macrostigma. [dragonflies] [ZH]. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia 🐉 (DE) 🐉 (CH). [EN]: Wikipedia.
Lestes sponsa / Gemeine Binsenjungfer, die. [dragonflies] [ZH]. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia 🐉 (DE) 🐉 (CH). [EN]: Wikipedia.
Lestes virens vestalis / Kleine Binsenjungfer. [dragonflies] [ZH].
Leucorrhinia albifrons / Östliche Moosjungfer, die / Dark whiteface. [dragonflies] [ZH]. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia 🐉 (DE). [EN]: Wikipedia.
Leucorrhinia caudalis / Zierliche Moosjungfer, die. [dragonflies] [ZH]. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia 🐉 (DE). [EN]: Wikipedia.
Leucorrhinia dubia / Kleine Moosjungfer, die / White-faced darter; Variant: Small whiteface. [dragonflies] [ZH]. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia 🐉 (DE). [EN]: Wikipedia.
Leucorrhinia pectoralis / Grosse Moosjungfer, die; Variant: Große Moosjungfer / Large white-faced darter; Variant: Yellow-spotted whiteface. [dragonflies] [ZH]. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia 🐉 (DE). [EN]: Wikipedia.
Leucorrhinia rubicunda / Nordische Moosjungfer, die / Northern white-faced darter. [dragonflies] [ZH]. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia 🐉 (DE). [EN]: Wikipedia.
Libellula depressa / Plattbauch, der / Broad-bodied chaser; Variant: Broad-bodied darter. [dragonflies] [ZH]. Observed 2026-05-25 La Sauge . Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia 🐉 (DE). [EN]: Wikipedia.
Libellula fulva / Spitzenfleck, der / Scarce chaser. [dragonflies] [ZH]. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia 🐉 (DE). [EN]: Wikipedia.
Libellula quadrimaculata / Vierfleck, der. [dragonflies] [ZH]. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia 🐉 (DE). [EN]: Wikipedia.
Nehalennia speciosa / Zwerglibelle, die. [dragonflies] [ZH]. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia 🐉 (DE) 🐉 (CH). [EN]: Wikipedia.
Onychgomphus forcipatus / Kleine Zangenlibelle. [dragonflies] [ZH]. Sources: [DE]: 🐉 (DE). .
Onychgomphus uncatus / Grosse Zangenlibelle. [dragonflies] [ZH]. Sources: [DE]: 🐉 (DE). .
Onychogomphus forcipatus unguiculatus / Westliche Zangenlibelle. [dragonflies] [ZH].
Ophiogomphus cecilia / Grüne Flussjungfer, die / Green snaketail, green gomphid,; Variant: Green club-tailed dragonfly. [dragonflies] [ZH]. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia 🐉 (DE). [EN]: Wikipedia.
Orthetrum albistylum / Östlicher Blaupfeil, der; Variant: Östliche Blaupfeil. [dragonflies] [ZH]. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia 🐉 (DE). [EN]: Wikipedia.
Orthetrum brunneum / Südlicher Blaupfeil, der; Variant: Südliche Blaupfeil / Southern skimmer. [dragonflies] [ZH]. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia 🐉 (DE). [EN]: Wikipedia.
Orthetrum cancellatum / Grosser Blaupfeil, der; Variant: Große Blaupfeil / Black-tailed skimmer. [dragonflies] [ZH]. Observed 2025-07-31 Schweiz . Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia 🐉 (DE). [EN]: Wikipedia.
Orthetrum coerulescens / Kleiner Blaupfeil, der; Variant: Kleine Blaupfeil / Keeled skimmer. [dragonflies] [ZH]. Observed 2025-07-23 Fehraltorf . 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.
Oxygastra curtisii / Gekielter Flussfalke, der; Variant: Gekielte Flussfalke / Orange-spotted emerald. [dragonflies] [ZH]. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia 🐉 (DE). [EN]: Wikipedia.
Platycnemis pennipes / Blaue Federlibelle, die / White-legged damselfly; Variant: Blue featherleg. [dragonflies] [ZH]. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia 🐉 (DE) 🐉 (CH). [EN]: Wikipedia.
Pyrrhosoma nymphula / Zygoptera, die; Variant: Frühe Adonislibelle / Large red damselfly. [dragonflies] [ZH]. Observed 2026-05-02 Fehraltorf . Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia 🐉 (DE) 🐉 (CH). [EN]: Wikipedia.
Somatochlora alpestris / Alpen-Smaragdlibelle, die / The alpine emerald. [dragonflies] [ZH]. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia 🐉 (DE). [EN]: Wikipedia.
Somatochlora arctica / Arktische Smaragdlibelle, die / Northern emerald. [dragonflies] [ZH]. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia 🐉 (DE). [EN]: Wikipedia.
Somatochlora flavomaculata / Gefleckte Smaragdlibelle, die. [dragonflies] [ZH]. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia 🐉 (DE). [EN]: Wikipedia.
Somatochlora metallica / Glänzende Smaragdlibelle, die. [dragonflies] [ZH]. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia 🐉 (DE). [EN]: Wikipedia.
Stylurus flavipes / Eurasische Keulenjungfer, die; Variant: Asiatische Keiljungfer / River clubtail; Variant: Yellow-legged dragonfly. [dragonflies] [ZH]. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia 🐉 (DE). [EN]: Wikipedia.
Sympecma fusca / Gemeine Winterlibelle, die / Common winter damselfly, is a damselfly a member of Lestidae and related to emeralds. [dragonflies] [ZH]. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia 🐉 (DE) 🐉 (CH). [EN]: Wikipedia.
Sympecma paedisca / Sibirische Winterlibelle, die. [dragonflies] [ZH]. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia 🐉 (DE) 🐉 (CH). [EN]: Wikipedia.
Sympetrum danae / Schwarze Heidelibelle, die / Black darter; Variant: Black meadowhawk. [dragonflies] [ZH]. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia 🐉 (DE). [EN]: Wikipedia.
Sympetrum depressiusculum / Sumpf-Heidelibelle, die / Spotted darter. [dragonflies] [ZH]. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia 🐉 (DE). [EN]: Wikipedia.
Sympetrum flaveolum / Gefleckte Heidelibelle, die / Yellow-winged darter. [dragonflies] [ZH]. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia 🐉 (DE). [EN]: Wikipedia.
Sympetrum fonscolombii / Frühe Heidelibelle, die / Red-veined darter; Variant: Nomad. [dragonflies] [ZH]. Observed 2025-08-30 Fehraltorf . Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia 🐉 (DE). [EN]: Wikipedia.
Sympetrum meridionale / Südliche Heidelibelle, die / Southern darter. [dragonflies] [ZH]. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia 🐉 (DE). [EN]: Wikipedia.
Sympetrum pedemontanum / Gebänderte Heidelibelle, die / Banded darter. [dragonflies] [ZH]. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia 🐉 (DE). [EN]: Wikipedia.
Sympetrum sanguineum / Blutrote Heidelibelle, die / Ruddy darter. [dragonflies] [ZH]. Observed 2025-09-03 . Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia 🐉 (DE). Seen at Lützelsee. [EN]: Wikipedia.
Sympetrum striolatum / Grosse Heidelibelle, die; Variant: Große Heidelibelle / Common darter. [dragonflies] [ZH]. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia 🐉 (DE). [EN]: Wikipedia.
Sympetrum vulgatum / Gemeine Heidelibelle, die / Vagrant darter. [dragonflies] [ZH]. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia 🐉 (DE). [EN]: Wikipedia.
suborder Zygoptera / Damselfly; Variant: Damselflies. [dragonflies] [ZH]. Observed 2024-08-05 Luetzelsee . These are the smaller, thinner dragonflies.
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.
Calliptamus italicus / Italienische Schönschrecke, die / Italian locust. [grasshoppers] [ZH]. Observed 2025-10-10 Levanto . Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. Seen for the first time between Levanto and Bonassola.
Leptophyes punctatissima / Punktierte Zartschrecke, die / Speckled Bush-Cricket. [grasshoppers] [ZH]. Observed 2025-08-05 Fehraltorf . Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia.
Nemobius sylvestris / Waldgrille, die / Wood cricket. [grasshoppers] [ZH]. Observed 2025-10-31 Mostly Wildert . Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. Hmm, was the Halloween 2025 photo my first cricket picture?.
Pseudochorthippus parallelus / Gemeine Grashüpfer, der. [grasshoppers] Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia.
flies:
General: Observed 59 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.
Aglais urticae / Kleine Fuchs, der / Small tortoiseshell. [flies] Observed 2026-04-23 Fehraltorf . Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia.
Anthocharis cardamines / Aurorafalter, der / Orange tip. [flies] Observed 2026-04-22 Fehraltorf . Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia.
Aricia agestis / Kleine Sonnenröschen-Bläuling, der / Brown argus. [flies] Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia.
Bombus lapidarius / Steinhummel, die / A kind of Bombus lapidarius. [flies] Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia.
Bombus pratorum / Wiesenhummel, die / Early bumblebee; Variant: Early-nesting bumblebee. [flies] Observed 2025-07-30 Schweiz . Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia.
Bombus ruderatus / Feldhummel, die / Large garden bumblebee; Variant: Ruderal bumblebee. [flies] Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia.
Bombylius major / Wollschweber / Large Bee-fly. [flies] [ZH]. Observed 2026-04-22 Fehraltorf .
Cacyreus marshalli / Pelargonien-Bläuling, der / Geranium bronze. [flies] Observed 2025-10-10 Levanto . Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia.
Celastrina argiolus / Faulbaum-Bläuling, der / Holly blue. [flies] Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia.
Clogmia albipunctata / Abflussfliege; Variant: Familie der / A kind of Clogmia albipunctata; Variants: bathroom moth midge, bathroom moth fly, drain fly. [flies] [ZH]. Observed 2026-04-23 Fehraltorf . 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.
Coenonympha pamphilus / Kleine Wiesenvögelchen, das / Small heath. [flies] Observed 2025-08-18 Fehraltorf . Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia.
Colias hyale / Goldene Acht, auch Posthörnchen, Kleines Posthörnchen, Weißklee-Gelbling, Gemeiner Gelbling, Gelber Heufalter, die / Pale clouded yellow. [flies] Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia.
Drosophila melanogaster / Schwarzbäuchige Fruchtfliege / Fruit fly. [flies] [ZH]. Observed 2025-07-22 Fehraltorf . Den deutschen Namen hier gibt's erst seit 1960.
Episyrphus balteatus / Hainschwebfliege; Variant: Marmeladen-Schwebfliege / Marmalade hoverfly. [flies] [ZH]. Observed 2025-08-07 Fehraltorf . Sources: [EN]: Wikipedia. Wikpedia says this kind is the most abundant native hoverfly in Central Europe.
Eristalis arbustorum / Kleine Keilfleckschwebfliege, die / European Drone Fly. [flies] [ZH]. Observed 2025-08-03 Fehraltorf . Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia.
Eristalis pertinax / Gemeine Keilfleckschwebfliege / Tapered Drone Fly. [flies] [ZH]. ID tip: black hourglass, tail is really tapered (conical). Observed 2025-08-03 Fehraltorf . Sources: [EN]: Wikipedia.
Eristalis tenax / Mistbiene, die; Variants: Mistbiene, Schlammbiene, Drohnenfliege, Scheinbienen-Keilfleckschwebfliege, Schlammbiene / Common drone fly. [flies] [ZH]. Observed 2025-08-05 Fehraltorf . 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.
Exorista larvarum. [flies] [ZH]. Sources: [EN]: Wikipedia. A kind of Tachinid fly or German Raupenfliege. Note the stripes..
Family Syrphidae / Schwebfliege; Variants: Stehfliege, Schwirrfliege. [flies] [ZH]. Observed 2025-07-06 Fehraltorf .
Family Tabanidae / Horsefly. [flies] [ZH]. Observed 2026-03-04 . flies.
Family leptoceridae / Long-horned caddisfly; Variant: silverhorn. [flies] [ZH]. Identifying which species is hopeless - there are said to be 1850 in 68 genera - how does nature manage this?:flies.
Gattung Calliphora / Blaue Schmeissfliege. [flies] [ZH]. Observed 2026-05-04 Fehraltorf .
Helophilus pendulus / Gemeine Sumpfschwebfliege, die / Sun Fly. [flies] [ZH]. Observed 2025-07-31 Schweiz . Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia.
Helophilus trivittatus / Große Sumpfschwebfliege, die / Large Tiger Hoverfly; Variant: A kind of Helophilus trivittatus. [flies] [ZH]. Observed 2025-07-31 Schweiz . Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia.
Hermetia illucens / Schwarze Soldatenfliege; Variant: Familie der / Black soldier fly. [flies] [ZH]. Observed 2025-06-25 Fehraltorf . Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia.
Hipparchia fagi / Große Waldportier, der / Woodland grayling. [flies] Observed 2026-04-24 . Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia.
Hipparchia genava / Lesser rock grayling. [flies] Observed 2026-04-24 . Sources: [EN]: Wikipedia.
Hyponephele lycaon / Kleine Ochsenauge, das / Dusky meadow brown. [flies] Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia.
Lampides boeticus / Große Wanderbläuling, der / Pea blue,; Variant: Long-tailed blue, is a small butterfly that belongs to lycaenids. [flies] Observed 2025-10-10 Levanto . Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia.
Leptidea sinapis / The wood white butterfly of family Pieridae. [flies] Observed 2026-04-19 . Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia.
Leptotes pirithous / Kleine Wanderbläuling, der. [flies] Observed 2025-10-10 Levanto . Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia.
Linnaemya picta. [flies] [ZH]. Sources: [EN]: Wikipedia. A kind of Tachinid fly or German Raupenfliege.
Linsenfliege. [flies]
Lucilia caesar / Goldfliege / Common Greenbottle Fly. [flies] [ZH]. Observed 2025-10-21 Walensee . 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.
Lycorma delicatula / Gepunktete Laternenträgerzikade, die / Spotted lanternfly. [flies] [ZH]. Observed 2024-09-28 . Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. Seen on the Skyline Drive - never heard of them before.
Lysandra coridon / Silbergrüne Bläuling, der / Chalkhill blue. [flies] Observed 2025-08-12 Klausenpass . Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia.
Maniola jurtina / Große Ochsenauge, das / Meadow brown. [flies] Observed 2025-08-19 Pfäffikersee . Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia.
Melanargia galathea / Schachbrett, das / Marbled white. [flies] Observed 2025-07-29 Schweiz . Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia.
Melanostoma scalare / Matte Schwarzkopfschwebfliege, die / Ladder-backed hoverfly; Variants: Chequered hoverfly, Ladder-backed hover fly. [flies] [ZH]. ID tip: black W. Observed 2025-08-03 Fehraltorf . 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'.
Mesembrina meridiana / Rinderfliege, die; Variant: Mittagsfliege / Noon fly. [flies] [ZH]. Observed 2025-10-15 . 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.
Microdon-Schwebfliege / Microdon-schwebfliege. [flies]
Musca domestica / Stubenfliege / Housefly. [flies] [ZH]. Observed 2025-07-06 Fehraltorf . Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia.
Pararge aegeria / Speckled wood. [flies] Observed 2026-04-24 . Sources: [EN]: Wikipedia.
Phaonia subventa / Ein Art der echten Fliegen / Flesh fly; Variants: A kind of Phaonia subventa, Muscid fly. [flies] [ZH]. Observed 2026-04-19 . Sources: [EN]: Wikipedia. Similar to a housefly, but the rear half is reddish, the eyes are separated by a black and gray part.
Philopotamus montanus / Yellow-spotted Sedge; Variant: caddisfly. [flies] [ZH]. Observed 2025-07-17 Kaltbrunner-Riet .
Pollenia rudis / Gemeine Wurmfliege; Variant: Graugelbe Polsterfliege / Cluster fly; Variant: Common cluster fly. [flies] [ZH]. Observed 2026-03-05 . Sources: [EN]: Wikipedia. Seen February 2026 on out house.
Rhagio scolopaceus / Downlooker Snipefly. [flies] [ZH]. Observed 2026-05-04 Fehraltorf .
Rhingia campestris / Gemeine Schnauzenschwebfliege / Common Snout-hoverfly; Variant: Heineken fly. [flies] [ZH]. Observed 2025-09-12 Fehraltorf . Seen in my rock garden for the first time in September, 2025.
Sarcophaga carnaria / Graue Fleischfliege, die / Common flesh fly. [flies] [ZH]. Observed 2026-05-10 Fehraltorf . 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.".
Sphaerophoria scripta / Gewöhnliche Langbauchschwebfliege, die / Long hoverfly. [flies] [ZH]. Observed 2025-08-07 Fehraltorf . Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia.
Summer tanager. [flies] Observed 2023-04-01 2023-03,04 Yucatan . Sources: [EN]: Wikipedia.
Syritta pipiens / Kleine Mistbiene, die / Thick-legged hoverfly. [flies] [ZH]. Observed 2024-06-16 Fehraltorf . 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..
Syrphus ribesii / Große Schwebfliege, die / Common Flower Fly. [flies] [ZH]. Observed 2025-10-31 Mostly Wildert . Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. The first one I saw seemed to like sitting on my telephoto lens!.
Triochera annulata / Wintermuecke / Winter gnat; Variant: Winter crane flies. [flies] [ZH]. Observed 2026-04-15 Fehraltorf . Wikipedia says long, thin, delicate insects seen in fall, spring, and sometimes winter.
Vanessa cardui / Distelfalter, der / Painted lady; Variant: Formerly in North America cosmopolitan. [flies] Observed 2016-07-21 Fehraltorf . Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia.
Volucella zonaria / Hornissenschwebfliege, die / Hornet mimic hoverfly. [flies] [ZH]. Observed 2025-06-23 Fehraltorf . Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia.
Whooper swans / Whooper swan. [flies] Observed 2015-06-03 2015-05,06 Iceland . Sources: [EN]: Wikipedia.
family Phoridae / Scuttle fly; Variant: hump-backed fly. [flies] [ZH]. Observed 2025-10-18 Fehraltorf . GL says it looks like a scuttle fly, but I think identifying it is impossible.
family Psychodidae / Drain fly; Variants: moth fly, sink fly, bathroom moth midge. [flies] [ZH]. Observed 2026-04-23 Fehraltorf .
aphids:
General: Observed 2 kinds.
Ancistrocerus gazella / European potter wasp; Variant: European tube wasp. [aphids] Observed 2025-10-10 Levanto . Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia.
Toxoptera citricidus / Brown citrus aphid. [aphids] [ZH]. Observed 2024-06-15 Fehraltorf . My sighting could also be an Uroleucon species, both of which are shiny black in adult form.
butterflies:
General: Observed 28 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.
Aglais io / Tagpfauenauge, das / European peacock; Variants: European peacock,, The peacock butterfly, peacock butterfly. [butterflies] [ZH]. Observed 2025-07-15 . 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..
Agriphila selasella / A kind of Agriphila selasella. [butterflies] [ZH]. Observed 2025-08-18 Fehraltorf . Sources: [EN]: Wikipedia.
Aphantopus hyperantus / Brauner Waldvogel, der; Variant: Braune Waldvogel / Ringlet. [butterflies] [ZH]. Observed 2025-08-16 Fehraltorf . Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. Nach Wikpedia eine Art Tagefalter. Und ist es nicht lustig, wenn ein Schmetterling-Name 'Vogel' beinhaltet. [EN]: Wikipedia.
Argynnis paphia / Kaisermantel, der / Silver-washed fritillary. [butterflies] [ZH]. Observed 2025-08-06 Fehraltorf . Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia.
Brintesia circe / Weiße Waldportier, der / Great banded grayling. [butterflies] [ZH]. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia.
Calopteryx hämorrhoidalis / Mediterranean demoiselle. [butterflies] [ZH]. Observed 2025-10-10 Levanto . Seen in Italy, may not appear in Switzerland.
Campaea margaritata / Perlglanzspanner, der / Light Emerald. [butterflies] [ZH]. Observed 2025-08-29 Wald Fehraltorf . Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. Seen on a window at Puregym in Uster!.
Collita griseola / Dingy Footman moth; Variant: Dingy footman. [butterflies] [ZH]. Observed 2025-08-14 Fehraltorf . Sources: [EN]: Wikipedia.
Crambus pascuella / Grasmotte / A kind of Crambus pascuella. [butterflies] [ZH]. Observed 2025-08-18 Fehraltorf . Sources: [EN]: Wikipedia.
Danaus plexippus / Monarchfalter, der / Monarch butterfly; Variant: Simply monarch. [butterflies] [ZH]. Observed 2023-03-16 2023-03 Madeira . Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. butterflies. [EN]: Wikipedia.
Euthrix potatoria / Grasglucke, die / Larva of the Drinker Moth. [butterflies] [ZH]. Observed 2025-08-13 Klausenpass . Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia.
Gonepteryx rhamni / Zitronenfalter, der / Brimstone butterfly; Variant: Common brimstone. [butterflies] [ZH]. Observed 2026-04-20 Alpweg . Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia.
Halictus ligatus / A kind of Halictus ligatus. [butterflies] Observed 2025-08-05 Fehraltorf . Sources: [EN]: Wikipedia.
Kleiner Fuchs. [butterflies] [ZH]. Mein Vogelkalender sagt 'der Kleine Fuchs' nutz[t] Höhen oder Keller zur Überwinterung.
Lasiommata maera / Braunauge, das / Large wall brown. [butterflies] [ZH]. Observed 2025-10-10 Levanto . Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia.
Limenitis camilla / Kleine Eisvogel, der / White Admiral. [butterflies] [ZH]. Observed 2025-06-28 Fehraltorf . Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia.
Macroglossum stellatarum / Taubenschwänzchen, das; Variant: Taubenschwänzchen / Hummingbird hawk-moth. [butterflies] [ZH]. Observed 2026-02-24 Fehraltorf . 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.
Minois dryas / Blauäugige Waldportier, der / Dryad. [butterflies] [ZH]. Observed 2025-07-17 Kaltbrunner-Riet . Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. Saw one in Kaltbrunner-Riet.
Odezia atrata / Schwarzspanner, der / Chimney Sweeper Moth. [butterflies] [ZH]. Observed 2025-08-13 Klausenpass . Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. .
Papilio polyxenes / Familie der / Fennel Swallowtail. [butterflies] [ZH]. Observed 2024-06-14 Pfäffikersee . Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. Here a caterpillar - not sure, but they look similar.
Phengaris rebeli / Scarce Large Blue; Variant: Rebel's Large Blue. [butterflies] [ZH]. Observed 2025-08-10 .
Pieris napi / Rapsweissling, der; Variants: Rapsweißling, Grünader-Weissling / Green-veined white. [butterflies] [ZH]. Observed 2025-07-31 Schweiz . Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia.
Pieris rapae / Kleiner Kohlweissling, der; Variant: Kleine Kohlweißling / Small White, also known as the Cabbage White. [butterflies] [ZH]. Observed 2025-08-08 Fehraltorf . Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia URL. A common butterfly species in Switzerland. See https://insectic.com/butterfly-species-switzerland/#google_vignette.
Polygonia c-album / C-Falter / Comma butterfly. [butterflies] [ZH]. Observed 2025-08-14 Fehraltorf . Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. Also classified as a Nymphalis c-album.
Polyommatus icarus / Hauhechel-Bläuling, der; Variant: Hauhechel-Bläuling / Common blue butterfly; Variant: European common blue. [butterflies] [ZH]. Observed 2025-08-13 Klausenpass . Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia.
Vanessa atalanta / Admiral, der / Red admiral; Variant: The red admirable. [butterflies] [ZH]. Observed 2025-10-12 Fehraltorf . Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia.
Xanthorhoe montanata / Schwarzbraunbinden-Blattspanner, der / Silver-ground carpet. [butterflies] [ZH]. Observed 2025-07-26 Fehraltorf . Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. Actually a moth - are they not included from the butterfly web site?.
Zygaena filipendulae / Sechsfleck-Widderchen, das / Six-spot Burnet moth; Variant: Six-spot burnet. [butterflies] [ZH]. Observed 2025-08-12 Klausenpass . Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia.
wasps:
General: Observed 11 kinds.
Delta unguiculatum / Große Lehmwespe, die / Great Potter Wasp; Variant: A kind of Delta unguiculatum. [wasps] [ZH]. Observed 2025-08-05 Fehraltorf . Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. a kind of potter wasp.
Eumenes coarctatus / eine Art Pillenwespe / Heath Potter Wasp. [wasps] [ZH]. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. . a kind of potter wasp.
Eumenes mediterraneus / Mediterranean Potter Wasp; Variant: A kind of Eumenes mediterraneus. [wasps] [ZH]. Observed 2025-08-05 Fehraltorf . Sources: [EN]: Wikipedia. a kind of potter wasp.
Feigenwespe. [wasps]
Goldwespe. [wasps]
Juwelwespe. [wasps]
Polistes dominula / Papierwespe, die; Variant: Haus-Feldwespe / European paper wasp; Variant: European paper wasp#2. [wasps] [ZH]. Observed 2025-08-07 Fehraltorf . Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. There are no doubt lots of kinds of paper wasps, not sure this is the right kind..
Rhyssa persuasoria / Holzwespen-Schlupfwespe / Sabre wasp. [wasps] [ZH]. Observed 2025-09-03 . 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)..
Vespula germanica / Deutsch Wespe. [wasps] [ZH]. Sources: [EN]: Wikipedia.
Xylocopa violacea / Große Blaue Holzbiene, auch Blauschwarze, die / Violet carpenter bee. [wasps] Observed 2025-08-29 Wald Fehraltorf . Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia.
Zwergwespe. [wasps]
hornets:
General: Observed 1 kinds.
Vespa crabro / Europäische Hornisse, die; Variant: Hornisse / European hornet; Variant: European hornet#2. [hornets] [ZH]. Observed 2026-05-19 Fehraltorf, Effretikon Bienen-Park, Wildert . 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.
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.'
Nezara viridula / die Grüne Reiswanze / Southern green shield bug; Variant: southern green stink bug. [truebugs] [ZH]. Observed 2025-07-25 Fehraltorf . Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. The order Hemiptera includes what are called 'true bugs', so I'm using that as a type for now.
Philaenus spumarius / Wiesenschaumzikade, die / Meadow Spittlebug; Variant: Meadow froghopper. [truebugs] [ZH]. Observed 2025-07-14 Fehraltorf . 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.
Pyrrhocoris apterus / Gemeine Feuerwanze, die / Fire bug. [truebugs] [ZH]. Observed 2025-08-22 Fehraltorf . 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..
Rhyparochromus vulgaris / Bright-spotted Groundbug. [truebugs] [ZH]. Observed 2026-04-16 Fehraltorf . GL says a Bright-spotted Groundbug (Rhyparochromus vulgaris) is a species of dirt-colored seed bug native to Europe and commonly found in Switzerland.
Schnake / Familie Tipulidae. [truebugs] [ZH]. Observed 2026-05-09 Fehraltorf .
genus Gerris / Water striders. [truebugs] [ZH]. Observed 2026-04-20 Alpweg . 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.
genus Sylvicola / Wood gnat; Variant: Window gnat. [truebugs] [ZH]. Observed 2026-04-21 Fehraltorf . I like the name window gnat, since I saw it on our kitchen window!.
spiders:
General: Observed 15 kinds.
Araneus diadematus / European garden spider; Variants: European garden spider cross orbweaver diadem spider orangie cross spider and crowned orb weaver, cross orbweaver, diadem spider. [spiders] [ZH]. Observed 2025-08-07 Fehraltorf . Sources: [EN]: Wikipedia.
Hogna radiata / Schwarzbäuchige Tarantel. [spiders] [ZH].
Linyphia triangularis / Gemeine Baldachinspinne, die / Money Spider. [spiders] [ZH]. Observed 2025-09-18 Fehraltorf . Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia.
Misumena vatia / Veränderliche Krabbenspinne, die / White Crab Spider; Variants: A kind of Misumena vatia, Goldenrod Crab Spider. [spiders] [ZH]. Observed 2026-05-21 . Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia.
Pholcus phalangioides / Große Zitterspinne, die / Long-bodied cellar spider. [spiders] [ZH]. Observed 2025-09-28 Fehraltorf . 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. .
Pisaura mirabilis / Listspinne, die / Nursery Web Spider. [spiders] [ZH]. Observed 2026-04-30 Fehraltorf . Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. Saw this one on our doormat, not in the nursery room.
Pseudeuophrys lanigera / Fleecy jumping spider. [spiders] [ZH]. Observed 2026-03-06 Flies at home . spiders.
Salticidae / Jumping spider. [spiders] [ZH]. Observed 2026-04-26 Fehraltorf . https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jumping_spider,https://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Springspinnen. Sources: [EN]: Wikipedia Wikipedia.
Salticus scenicus / Zebra jumping spider. [spiders] [ZH]. Observed 2026-04-26 Fehraltorf . https://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mauer-Zebraspringspinne,https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Zebra_spider. Sources: [EN]: Wikipedia Wikipedia.
Scotophaeus blackwalli / Kleine Mausspinne, die / Blackwall's ground spider. [spiders] [ZH]. Observed 2025-08-22 Fehraltorf . Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia.
Steatoda triangulosa / Dreiecks-Fettspinne, die / Triangulate Cobweb Spider. [spiders] [ZH]. Observed 2025-08-22 Fehraltorf . Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia.
Talavera inopinata. [spiders] [ZH]. 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.
Zoropsis spinimana / Nosferatu-Spinne, die / Nosferatu spider; Variant: False Wolf Spider. [spiders] [ZH]. Observed 2026-05-17 . 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.
genus Erigone / Dwarf spider; Variant: money spider. [spiders] [ZH]. Observed 2026-04-21 Fehraltorf . family Linyphiidae.
heliophanus cupreus / Kupfrige Sonnenspringspinne, die / Copper sun jumper. [spiders] [ZH]. Observed 2025-06-19 Fehraltorf . Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia.
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.
Mitopus morio / Gemeine Gebirgsweberknecht, der / Saddleback harvestman; Variant: A kind of Mitopus morio. [otherarachnoids] [ZH]. Observed 2025-09-17 . 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.
louses:
General: Observed 1 kinds.
Porcellio scaber / Kellerassel, die / Common rough woodlouse. [louses] [ZH]. Observed 2025-08-03 Fehraltorf . Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia.
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.
Acrididae.
Actias / Familie der. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia.
Adephaga.
Aeshna.
Aeshnidae.
Aglais.
Agriphila.
Amegilla garrula / Brown-striped digger bee. [bees] [ZH]. Observed 2026-04-08 . Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. .
Amerikanischer Totengräber / Amerikanischer totengräber.
Anax.
Ancistrocerus.
Andrena.
Andrena fulva / Rotpelzige Sandbiene, die / Tawny mining bee. [bees] [ZH]. Observed 2026-02-26 Fehraltorf . Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. Seen on one of the first warm days in February 2026 on the Winterflieder.
Andrenidae.
Anoplophora.
Anthidium.
Anthidium manicatum / Große Wollbiene, die / Common Wool Carder Bee; Variants: European wool carder bee is a species of bee Megachilidae leaf-cutter bees, Mason bees. [bees] [ZH]. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia URL. Belongs to Bees, Wasps and Ants (hymenoptera), Megachilidae, Anthidium. Image at https://observation.org/species/9245/observations/.
Anthocharis.
Anthophora.
Anthophora plumipes / Gemeine Pelzbiene, die / Hairy-footed Flower Bee. [bees] [ZH]. Observed 2026-05-07 Fehraltorf . Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. bees. [EN]: Wikipedia.
Anthophora quadrimaculata / Familie der / Four-banded Flower-Bee. [bees] [ZH]. Observed 2026-04-08 . Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. .
Aphantopus.
Aphrophoridae.
Apidae.
Apis.
Apis mellifera / Westliche Honigbiene, die / Western honey bee; Variant: European honey bee. [bees] [ZH]. Observed 2025-08-19 Pfäffikersee . 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. .
Arachnida.
Araneae.
Araneidae.
Araneus.
Arctiinae.
Argynnis.
Aricia.
Auchenorrhyncha.
Australische Riesenholzmotte / Australische riesenholzmotte.
Aves.
Behaarter Kurzflügler / Behaarte Kurzflügler, der / Behaarter kurzflügler. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. .
Bienenlaus. [bees]
Bienenwolf. [bees]
Blattella germanica / Deutsche Schabe, die; Variants: Küchenschabe, die Gemeine Küchenschabe / German cockroach; Variants: German cockroach#2, croton bug. [ZH]. Observed 2025-09-18 Fehraltorf . 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..
Blattodea.
Blattschneiderameisen.
Bombus.
Bombus campestris. [bees] Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia.
Bombus hortorum / Gartenhummel / Garden Bumblebee; Variant: Small garden bumblebee. [bees] [ZH]. Observed 2025-06-19 Fehraltorf . Sources: [EN]: Wikipedia URL. Bees, Wasps and Ants (Hymenoptera), see also https://observation.org/species/1700/observations/.
Bombus hypnorum / Baumhummel, die / Tree bumblebee or new garden bumblebee; Variants: Tree bumblebee, New garden bumblebee. [bees] [ZH]. Observed 2025-06-19 Fehraltorf . Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia Wikipedia. A species of bumblebee common [on] the European continent and parts of Asia. See https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bombus_hypnorum.
Bombus jonellus / Heidehummel, die / Heath humble-bee; Variant: small heath bumblebee. [bees] [ZH]. Observed 2025-06-28 Fehraltorf . Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia.
Bombus pascuorum / Ackerhummel, die / Common carder bee. [bees] [ZH]. Observed 2026-05-07 Fehraltorf . Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia.
Bombus pyrenaeus / (no common name); Variant: A kind of Bombus pyrenaeus. [bees] [ZH]. A kind of bumblebee with no common name. Sources: [EN]: Wikipedia.
Bombus rupestris / Felsen-Kuckuckshummel, die / A kind of Bombus rupestris. [bees] Observed 2025-07-26 Fehraltorf . Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia.
Bombus soroeensis / Glockenblumen-Hummel, die / Broken-belted bumblebee; Variant: Ilfracombe bumblebee. [bees] [ZH]. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. Suggested by Google AI but not confirmed, alternative name is Ilfracombe bumblebee. [EN]: Wikipedia.
Bombus terrestris / Dunkle Erdhummel, die / Buff-tailed bumblebee; Variant: Large earth bumblebee. [bees] [ZH]. Observed 2024-06-04 2024 Fehraltorf etc . Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. Common in Switzerland, says Google Lens.
Cacyreus.
Caelifera.
Calliphoridae.
Calliptamus.
Calopteryginae.
Calopteryx.
Campaea.
Carabidae.
Cardinalidae.
Cathedra serrata.
Celastrina.
Cerambycidae. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia.
Ceriagrion.
Chalcolestes.
Chelicerata.
Chelostoma.
Chinesischer Sandlaufkäfer / Chinesischer sandlaufkäfer.
Chlaenius.
Cholini.
Chrysomelidae.
Chrysomeloidea.
Cicindela.
Cicindelidae.
Clogmia.
Coccinellidae.
Cochenillelaus / Cochenilleschildlaus, Cochenillelaus, die. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. .
Coenagrion.
Coenonympha.
Coleoptera.
Colias.
Collita.
Coprophanaeus.
Coprophanaeus lancifer. Sources: [EN]: Wikipedia.
Cordulegaster.
Cordulia.
Corydalidae.
Corydalinae / Grosse Dobsonfliege. Sources: [EN]: Wikipedia.
Crambidae.
Crambus.
Criocerinae.
Criocerini.
Crocothemis.
Culicidae.
Curculionidae.
Cyrtus gibuu.
Danaus.
Dasymutilla.
Dasymutilla gloriosa. Sources: [EN]: Wikipedia.
Delta.
Diptera.
Distelfalter.
Dolichovespula.
Dolichovespula saxonica / Sächsische Wespe / Saxon wasp. [bees] [ZH]. Sources: [EN]: Wikipedia.
Empididae.
Enallagma.
Ensifera. Sources: [EN]: Wikipedia.
Episyrphus.
Epitheca.
Erebidae.
Eristalinae.
Eristalis.
Erlen-Rindeneule / Erlen-Rindeneule, die / Erlen-rindeneule. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. .
Erythromma.
Eumenes.
Euthrix.
Exechesops leucopis.
Exorista.
Exoristinae.
Exoristini.
Facherflügler.
Fadenhafte.
Federflügler. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. .
Fruhstorfer.
Fulcidax.
Fulgoridae.
Gattung Nomada / Wespenbiene. [bees] [ZH]. Observed 2026-04-23 Fehraltorf . Gesehen bei einem Spaziergang richtung Pistolschutzenhaus in Fehraltorf.
Gelbe Mordfliege / Gelbe Mordfliege, die / Gelbe mordfliege. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. .
Genus Hylaeus / Masked bee; Variant: Yellow-faced bee. [bees] [ZH]. Observed 2026-04-19 .
Geometridae.
Glossata.
Gnaphosidae.
Gnitze. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. .
Gomphocerinae.
Gomphocerini.
Gomphus.
Gonepteryx.
Gyrostigma rhinocerontis. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. .
Halictidae.
Halictinae.
Halictini.
Halictus.
Harmonia.
Heliophanus.
Helophilus.
Hemiptera.
Hermetia.
Hermetiinae.
Hesperiidae.
Heteroptera.
Hipparchia.
Hymenoptera.
Hypocephalus armatus / Mole beetle. Sources: [EN]: Wikipedia.
Hyponephele.
Ischnura.
Isopoda.
Kapala. Sources: [EN]: Wikipedia.
Kurzflügler. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. .
Lampides.
Langrüsselige Fliege / Langrüsselige fliege.
Lasiocampidae.
Lasioglossum.
Lasioglossum calceatum / Gemeine Furchenbiene, die / Slender Mining Bee. [bees] [ZH]. Observed 2025-08-16 Fehraltorf . Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia.
Lasioglossum limbellum / Geriefte Steilwand-Schmalbiene / Ridge-gastered Furrow Bee. [bees] [ZH].
Lasioglossum malachurum / Pförtner-Schmalbiene; Variant: Feldweg-Schmalbiene / Sharp-collared furrow bee. [bees] [ZH]. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia.
Lasioglossum nigripes / Slender Mining Bee. [bees] [ZH]. 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..
Lasiommata.
Lepidoptera.
Leptidea.
Leptophyes.
Leptotes.
Lestes.
Lestoidea.
Leucorrhinia.
Libellula.
Lilioceris.
Limenitis.
Linnaemya.
Linyphia.
Linyphiidae.
Lithinus rufopenicillatus.
Lucilia.
Lycaenidae.
Lycorma.
Lysandra.
Macrocilix maia.
Macrodontia cervicornis.
Macroglossum.
Maniola.
Mantisfiege.
Maquech.
Maulwurfgrille.
Meerwasserläufer. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. .
Megabombus.
Megachilidae.
Megaloptera.
Megarhyssa.
Megascolia.
Megascolia procer. Sources: [EN]: Wikipedia.
Melanargia.
Melanobombus.
Melanostoma.
Melolontha.
Mesembrina.
Milesiini.
Minois.
Misumena.
Mitopus.
Molytinae.
Mopanewurm.
Morpho cypris.
Musca.
Muscidae.
Muscini.
Mutillidae.
Nehalennia.
Nemobiinae.
Nemobiini.
Nemobius.
Nezara.
Noctuoidea.
Nymphalidae.
Oberea.
Odonata.
Oedipodinae.
Oestroidea.
Oniscidea.
Onychocerusalbitarsis.
Ophiogomphus.
Opiliones.
Orthetrum.
Orthoptera.
Osmia.
Osmia bicornis / Rostrote Mauerbiene auch Rote Mauerbiene, die / Red Mason Bee. [bees] [ZH]. Observed 2026-04-22 Fehraltorf . Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. GoogleLens says it's a common solitary bee found throughout Switzerland.
Osmia cornifrons / Mason bee; Variant: horned-face bee. [bees] [ZH]. Observed 2026-04-19 .
Osmia cornuta / Gehörnte Mauerbiene, die / European orchard bee; Variant: European orchard bee#2. [bees] [ZH]. Observed 2026-03-09 . Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. bees. [EN]: Wikipedia.
Pachyrhynchus. Sources: [EN]: Wikipedia.
Pantophthalmus. Sources: [EN]: Wikipedia.
Papilio.
Papilionidae.
Papilionoidea.
Paramormiini.
Parapleurini.
Pararge.
Pentatomidae.
Phalangiidae.
Phanaeini.
Phaneropterinae.
Phaonia.
Philaenus.
Pholcidae.
Pholcus.
Picasso-Schildwanze / Picasso-schildwanze.
Pieridae.
Pieris.
Pimpla rufipes / Black Slip Wasp. [bees] [ZH]. Observed 2026-05-05 Fehraltorf .
Piranga. Sources: [EN]: Wikipedia.
Pisaura.
Pisauridae.
Plagiodera.
Platycnemis.
Polistes.
Polistinae.
Pollenia.
Polleniidae.
Polygonia.
Polyommatus.
Polyphaga.
Porcellio.
Porcellionidae.
Prosoplecta.
Pseudochorthippus.
Psithyrus.
Psychodidae.
Psychodinae.
Pyrobombus.
Pyrophorus.
Pyrrhocoridae.
Pyrrhocoris.
Pyrrhosoma.
Rhamphomyia.
Rhamphomyia longicauda / Long-tailed dance fly. Sources: [EN]: Wikipedia.
Rhinastus. Sources: [EN]: Wikipedia.
Riesenblattschrecke.
Riesenwasserwanze.
Sabethes.
Sabethes cyaneus / Sabethes-Stechmücke. Sources: [EN]: Wikipedia.
Salticinae.
Sarcophaga.
Sarcophagidae.
Sarcophaginae.
Saturniidae.
Satyrinae.
Scarabaeidae.
Scarabaeinae.
Schoenherr.
Scoliidae.
Scotophaeus.
Silberameise / Silberameise, die. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. .
Somatochlora.
Sphaerophoria.
Sphecodes.
Sphecodes albilabris / Familie der. [bees] [ZH]. Observed 2026-05-23 La Sauge . Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia.
Sphex pensylvanicus / Great black wasp; Variant: Great black digger wasp. [bees] [ZH]. Observed 2026-04-19 . 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..
Sphingidae.
St-Helena-Riesenohrwumm / St-helena-riesenohrwumm.
Steatoda.
Stenus-Kurzflügler / Stenus-kurzflügler.
Stethophyma. Sources: [EN]: Wikipedia.
Stratiomyidae.
Sympecma.
Sympetrum.
Syritta.
Syrphidae.
Syrphus.
Tachinidae.
Tarantulafalke / Familie der. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. .
Tettigoniidae.
Theridiidae.
Thomisidae.
Thymelicus.
Timarcha.
Totenkopfschwärme.
Trachypetrella anderssonii.
Trichius.
Trigonidiidae.
Trogonoptera brookiana.
Type species.
Vanessa.
Vespa.
Vesperidae.
Vespidae.
Vespula.
Vespula vulgaris / Gemeine Wespe, die. Observed 2025-08-09 . Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. .
Vieillot.
Volucella.
Wallace-Riesenbiene / Gattung Megachile / Wallace-riesenbiene. [bees] Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. .
Wetapunga.
Wollschweber.
Xanthorhoe.
Xylocopa.
Zikade. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. .
Zoropsidae.
Zoropsis.
Zygaena.
Zygaenidae.
family Ichneumonidae / Ichneumon wasp. [bees] [ZH]. Observed 2026-04-20 Alpweg . Ichneumonidae is a diverse group of parasitic wasps.
family Trombidiidae / Red velvet mite. [ZH]. Observed 2025-10-21 Walensee . 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..
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.
Apis mellifera / Westliche Honigbiene, die / Western honey bee; Variant: European honey bee. [bees] [ZH]. Observed 2025-08-19 Pfäffikersee . 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. .
Wild bees in Canton Zurich, 0 kinds::
General: Alle Bombus species are bumblebees, as I learned while researching our bees.
Wild bees elsewhere in Switzerland, 0 kinds:

That was a total of 593 species, observed 0 of those. Of those, 0 are in my canton. For 344 I couldn't find a Wikipedia page for the scientific name, and for 311 I couldn't find a vernacular name.

92 photos still need to be analyzed to identify the species