One of the Toughest Insects in the World

This may look like a bee... but it's not.
It's a Eristalis Tenax, a fly that camouflages as a bee to ward off predators.
It's one of the most interesting insects I've seen so far.
It's one of a handful of migratory insects. When the temperatures drop, it crosses the alps towards warmer climates. During its migration, it uses wind to its advantage. It will fly low in headwind but soar high and allow itself to be carried by tailwind. Swarms have been observed at up to 2000m above sea level.
They have even been found in the Himalayas.
As cool as they are, they are also incredibly tough and even dangerous.
Researchers have found them to survive for 3 days after decapitation (not sure what kind of research purpose that served).
More importantly, their eggs and larva are able to survive human stomach acid. Consuming their eggs in contaminated foods can result in myiasis. Untreated, this can be fatal. On that note, do yourself a favor and don't do a google image search for myiasis. Just don't.

Instead, enjoy these pretty images of one of the coolest insects in Europe.

Also, as you may have noticed, I have a new camera. Yay!