Insects I've observed - 172 species so far.

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

Bees and other insects from Switzerland:

Other insects than bees:

General: These species are not bees, but a number of kinds of flies look like bees, which helps to protect them. Oh my goodness, moths and beetles too!? (science.org says that greater mouse-eared bats buzz like hornets to keep predators, especially owls, away.)
beetles:
General: Observed 21 kinds.
Timberman beetle / Zimmermannsbock (Acanthocinus aedilis)

Timberman beetle (Acanthocinus ädilis). 2026-05-02 16:18:36 Fehraltorf Acanthocinus aedilis / Zimmermannsbock / Timberman beetle. This was the first observation.
Asian longhorned beetle / Asiatische Laubholzbockkäfer (Anoplophora glabripennis)

GL says this is a longhorn beetle, but there are so many different kinds. Looks a bit like the invasive Asian longhorned beetle, Anoplophora glabripennis, but the so-called horns aren't really long enough. 2025-10-17 16:07:33 Fehraltorf Anoplophora glabripennis / Asiatische Laubholzbockkäfer, der / Asian longhorned beetle; Variant: Asian long-horned beetle. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. GL said this is probably a longhorned beetle, but I'm not convinced the "horns" are really that long, and there are so many different kinds that I haven't found anything that looks just the same, though the invasive Asian longhorned beetle is similar. This was the first observation.
Cantharis rustica / Soldatenkäfer (Cantharis rustica)

Bei Wildert habe ich diesen Insekt entdeckt, und GL sagt sehr wahrscheinlich um den Soldatenkäfer (Cantharis rustica). 2026-05-12 22:37:38 Wildert Cantharis rustica / Soldatenkäfer. This was the first observation.
Large scissor-bee / Familie Megachilidae. (Chelostoma florisomne)

GL meint wahrscheinlich eine Hahnenfuss-Scherenbiene (Chelostoma florisomne). 2026-05-22 17:08:28 Fanel/Chablais de Cudrefin und La Sauge Chelostoma florisomne / Familie Megachilidae. / Large scissor-bee. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. This was the first observation.
Blue Mint Beetle / Himmelblauer Blattkäfer (Chrysolina coerulan)

GK says likely a Blue Mint Beetle, Chrysolina coerulans. 2025-08-13 18:41:39 Klausenpass Chrysolina coerulan / Himmelblauer Blattkäfer / Blue Mint Beetle. This was the first observation.
Green tiger beetle / Feld-Sandlaufkäfer (Cicindela campestris)

GL sagt ein Feld-Sandlaufkäfer, prüfen. 2025-08-13 18:42:33 Klausenpass Cicindela campestris / Feld-Sandlaufkäfer, der / Green tiger beetle. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. This was the first observation.
Harlequin, Asian, or multicoloured Asian lady beetle / Asiatische Marienkäfer (Harmonia axyridis)

Interesting insects in our garden in 2024. I had no clue, but Google Lens ays 'Larven des Asiatischen Marienkäfers (Harmonia axyridis)', and Wikipedia says Englihs would be harlequin, Asian, or multicoloured Asian lady beetle. 2024-06-15 14:01:02 Source: WIKIPEDIA 20240615_140102 Interesting insects in our garden in 2024. I had no clue, but Google Lens ays 'Larven des Asiatischen Marienkäfers (Harmonia axyridis)', and Wikipedia says Englihs would be harlequin, Asian, or multicoloured Asian lady beetle.jpg our garden Harmonia axyridis / Asiatische Marienkäfer, der / Harlequin, Asian, or multicoloured Asian lady beetle. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: WikipediaWikipedia. 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.
Scarlet lily beetle / Lilienhähnchen (Lilioceris lilii)

A cool red beetle, probably a scarlet lily beetle. 2025-04-12 12:31:40 Walensee Lilioceris lilii / Lilienhähnchen, das / Scarlet lily beetle; Variants: Scarlet lily beetle, red lily beetle,, Lily leaf beetle, red lily beetle or lily leaf beetle. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. This was the first observation.
Cockchafer / Feldmaikäfer (Melolontha melolontha)

I wrote 'those weird beetles' - Google Lens says Cockchafer, also known as a May Bug or May Beetle - sounds weird enough to me! 2024-04-14 09:02:31 Pfäffikersee Melolontha melolontha / Feldmaikäfer, der / Cockchafer; Variants: Common cockchafer, Maybug, Maybeetle, or doodlebug. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. Wikipedia says 'a species of scarab beetle'.. [EN]: Wikipedia. This was the first observation.
A kind of Oberea ruficollis (Oberea ruficollis)

Google Lens says this orange and black bug is a kind of longhorn beetle, possibly an elm borer (Oberea ulmicola), or Sassafras borer (Oberea ruficollis). 2024-06-14 19:22:23 Pfäffikersee Oberea ruficollis / A kind of Oberea ruficollis. Sources: [EN]: Wikipedia. This was the first observation.
A kind of Oberea ulmicola (Oberea ulmicola)

Google Lens says this orange and black bug is a kind of longhorn beetle, possibly an elm borer (Oberea ulmicola), or Sassafras borer (Oberea ruficollis). 2024-06-14 19:22:23 Pfäffikersee Oberea ulmicola / A kind of Oberea ulmicola. Sources: [EN]: Wikipedia. This was the first observation.
Cereal Leaf Beetle / Rothalsige Getreidehähnchen (Oulema melanopus)

Rothalsige Getreidehähnchen (Oulema melanopus), auch bekannt als Cereal Leaf Beetle. 2026-03-25 11:32:05 Fehraltorf Oulema melanopus / Rothalsige Getreidehähnchen, das / Cereal Leaf Beetle. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. Seen on our kitchen window - outdoors. Wikipedia says O. melanopus consumes nearly all cereal crops, but has a strong affinity for oats, barley, and rye, and its favorite host is wheat.. This was the first observation.
Old World swallowtail / Schwalbenschwanz (Papilio machaon)

GL says an Old World Swallowtail, also known as Papilio machaon. 2025-08-13 18:48:44 Klausenpass Papilio machaon / Schwalbenschwanz, der / Old World swallowtail. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. This was the first observation.
Willow Leaf Beetle / Breite Weidenblattkäfer (Plagiodera versicolora)

Willow Leaf Beetle according to GL, scientifically known as Plagiodera versicolora. 2025-06-27 17:13:23 Fehraltorf Plagiodera versicolora / Breite Weidenblattkäfer, der / Willow Leaf Beetle. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. This identification (by GL) is based on the following characteristics: Appearance: The beetle is small,rounded, and has a metalic sheen, typically appearing green, blue, or occasionally purple, with a black underside and legs. Confirm: Size: Adults generally measure between 2.5 to 4.5 mm.. This was the first observation.
Potter wasp (Potter wasps)

Possibly one of the Potter wasps (or mason wasps) - things like the two wide black stripes, red wings and other markings should help, but GL didn't have a great tip. 2025-10-10 15:35:46 Levanto Potter wasps / Potter wasp. Sources: [EN]: Wikipedia. This was the first observation.
Ribbed pine borer / Schrotbock (Rhagium inquisitor)

GL meint ein Schrotbock (Rhagium inquisitor), der auch als Kleiner Zangenbock oder Spürender Zangenbock bekannt ist. 2026-05-01 16:11:28 Fehraltorf Rhagium inquisitor / Schrotbock / Ribbed pine borer. This was the first observation.
Seidenkäfer / Familie Scraptiidae (Seidenkäfer)

GL meint ein Vertreter der Seidenkäfer (Familie Scraptiidae), sehr wahrscheinlich aus der Gattung Anaspis. 2026-05-07 15:40:56 Fehraltorf Seidenkäfer / Familie Scraptiidae. This was the first observation.
Essex skipper / Schwarzkolbige Braun-Dickkopffalter (Thymelicus lineola)

GL says Small Skipper (Thymelicus sylvestris) or an Essex Skipper (Thymelicus lineola). 2025-07-31 10:21:46 Thymelicus lineola / Schwarzkolbige Braun-Dickkopffalter, der / Essex skipper. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. This was the first observation.
Small skipper / Braunkolbige (Thymelicus sylvestris)

GL says Small Skipper (Thymelicus sylvestris) or an Essex Skipper (Thymelicus lineola). 2025-07-31 10:21:46 Thymelicus sylvestris / Braunkolbige, der / Small skipper. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. This was the first observation.
Bloody-nosed beetle / Tatzenkäfer (Timarcha tenebricosa)

GL says this is a Bloody-nosed beetle (Timarcha tenebricosa). Saw it in Koblenz after the flamingos. 2025-09-13 16:11:31 Timarcha tenebricosa / Tatzenkäfer, der / Bloody-nosed beetle; Variants: blood spewer, blood-spewing beetle. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. This was the first observation.
Eurasian bee beetle / Gebänderte Pinselkäfer (Trichius fasciatus)

A bee beetle (genus Trichius), I think a Eurasian bee beetle or Gebänderte Pinselkäfer (Trichius fasciatus). 2025-07-20 14:09:10 Trichius fasciatus / Gebänderte Pinselkäfer, der; Variant: Gebänderte Pinselkäfer / Eurasian bee beetle; Variant: Eurasian bee beetle#2. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. This was the first observation.
dragonflies:
General: Observed 19 kinds.
The excellent web site libellenwissen.de/artenliste/libellenarten-schweiz says that of the 6350 kinds of dragonflies in the world, 120-140 (or more) in Europe, and 85 species of 9 different families of those are found in Switzerland. libellenschutz.ch has excellent information about Swiss dragon- and damselflies, whereas libellen.tv has a wonderful way to identify them via their colors.
Blue-eye hawker dragonfly / Südliche Mosaikjungfer (Aeshna affinis)

Insects - looks like another that Google Lens said was a Blue-eye hawker dragonfly, Aeshna affinis. 2024-08-24 18:59:41 Aeshna affinis / Südliche Mosaikjungfer, die / Blue-eye hawker dragonfly; Variants: Southern migrant hawker, Blue-eyed hawker. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. This was the first observation.
Common hawker / Torf-Mosaikjungfer (Aeshna juncea)

I identified this myself - clearly a male Mosaikjungfer with green and blue but blue side dots all the way up - now I think Aeshna juncea, Torf-Mosaikjungfer. Unfortunately it was injured and couldn't fly. 2025-09-19 16:27:48 Aeshna juncea / Torf-Mosaikjungfer, die / Common hawker; Variants: Common hawker, moorland hawker, Sedge darner. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia 🐉 (DE). [EN]: Wikipedia. Cool looking dragonfly - it has blue spots on each side of the long body and is green near the wings. This kind has been seen up to 2800m! The Mosaikjungfer are hard to distinguish, the males are all blue, but the detailed designs of blue and green parts differ.. This was the first observation.
Banded demoiselle / Gebänderte Prachtlibelle (Calopteryx splendens)

Google Lens says Banded demoiselle, Calopteryx splendens. 2025-07-17 12:23:35 Kaltbrunner-Riet Calopteryx splendens / Gebänderte Prachtlibelle, die / Banded demoiselle. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia 🐉 (DE) 🐉 (CH). [EN]: Wikipedia. This was the first observation.
Beautiful demoiselle / Blauflügel-Prachtlibelle (Calopteryx virgo)

GL meint ein Männchen der Blauflügel-Prachtlibelle (Calopteryx virgo). 2026-05-25 14:15:37 Fanel/Chablais de Cudrefin und La Sauge Calopteryx virgo / Blauflügel-Prachtlibelle, die / Beautiful demoiselle. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia 🐉 (DE) 🐉 (CH). [EN]: Wikipedia. This was the first observation.
Willow emerald damselfly / Weidenjungfer (Chalcolestes_viridis)

GL meint ein Weidenjungfer (Chalcolestes viridis). 2025-09-03 16:56:35 Chalcolestes_viridis / Weidenjungfer, die; Variants: Weidenjungfer auch Gemeine Weidenjungfer, Gemeine Wiedenjungfer / Willow emerald damselfly; Variants: green emerald damselfly, western willow spreadwing. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. There are two similar kinds, but ornitho.ch only has the western species. I learned that damselflies normally close their wings when they land...but these don't, which I can also confirm in the photos. These are mostly present August to October. This was the first observation.
Azure damselfly / Hufeisen-Azurjungfer (Coenagrion puella)

Teil S2 ist entscheidend, hier könnte es das U-Zeichnung vom Hufeisen-Azurjungfer, cönagrion puella sein. 2025-07-19 13:49:39 Tösstal Coenagrion puella / Hufeisen-Azurjungfer, die / Azure damselfly. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia 🐉 (DE) 🐉 (CH). [EN]: Wikipedia. This was the first observation.
Variable damselfly / Fledermaus-Azurjungfer (Coenagrion pulchellum)

Eventuell Fledermaus-Azurjungfer Männchen mit viel Schwarz bei S6-7. 2026-05-02 18:16:26 Fehraltorf Coenagrion pulchellum / Fledermaus-Azurjungfer, die / Variable damselfly; Variant: Variable bluet. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia 🐉 (DE) 🐉 (CH). [EN]: Wikipedia. This was the first observation.
Golden-ringed dragonfly / zweigestreifte Quelljungfer (Cordulegaster boltonii)

Google Lens thinks this is a Cordulegaster boltonii, or zweigestreifte Quelljungfer, in English a Golden-ringed dragonfly. 2025-06-29 15:44:35 Fehraltorf Cordulegaster boltonii / zweigestreifte Quelljungfer, die / Golden-ringed dragonfly. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia 🐉 (DE). [EN]: Wikipedia. This was the first observation.
Downy emerald / Falkenlibelle (Cordulia aenea)

GL meint Falkenlibelle, was ab April erscheint und andere Leute in Kanton Zürich gesehen haben. 2026-05-02 18:16:28 Fehraltorf Cordulia aenea / Falkenlibelle, die / Downy emerald. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia 🐉 (DE). [EN]: Wikipedia. This was the first observation.
Blue Damselfly / Gemeine Becherjungfer (Enallagma cyathigerum)

TBI, maybe Blue Damselfly, Enallagma cyathigerum. 2025-07-19 13:50:29 Enallagma cyathigerum / Gemeine Becherjungfer, die / Blue Damselfly. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia 🐉 (DE) 🐉 (CH). [EN]: Wikipedia. This was the first observation.
Gomphus vulgatissimus / Gemeine Keiljungfer (Gomphus vulgatissimus)

Bei LaSauge die Gemeine Keiljungfer (Gomphus vulgatissimus). 2026-05-23 15:40:31 Fanel/Chablais de Cudrefin und La Sauge Gomphus vulgatissimus / Gemeine Keiljungfer, die. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia 🐉 (DE). [EN]: Wikipedia. First observed on 23 May 2026 in Fanel/Chablais de Cudrefin und La Sauge.
Blue-tailed damselfly / Grosse Pechlibelle (Ischnura elegans)

Grosse Pechlibelle oder das elegante Ischnura elegans at Wildert, komischerweise kleiner als die grosse Art von Libelle. 2025-08-05 16:58:46 Source: OTHER 20250805_165846 Grosse Pechlibelle oder das elegante Ischnura elegans at Wildert, komischerweise kleiner als die grosse Art von Libelle.jpg Wildert Ischnura elegans / Grosse Pechlibelle, die; Variant: Große Pechlibelle / Blue-tailed damselfly; Variant: Common bluetail. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia 🐉 (DE) 🐉 (CH). [EN]: Wikipedia. This was the first observation.
Broad-bodied chaser / Plattbauch (Libellula depressa)

GL sagt, das ist ein männlicher Plattbauch (Libellula depressa). 2026-05-25 15:39:12 Fanel/Chablais de Cudrefin und La Sauge Libellula depressa / Plattbauch, der / Broad-bodied chaser; Variant: Broad-bodied darter. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia 🐉 (DE). [EN]: Wikipedia. This was the first observation.
Black-tailed skimmer / Grosser Blaupfeil (Orthetrum cancellatum)

Dragonfly by Maggia, could be a black-tailed skimmer aka Grosse Blaupfeil. 2025-07-31 13:56:38 Orthetrum cancellatum / Grosser Blaupfeil, der; Variant: Große Blaupfeil / Black-tailed skimmer. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia 🐉 (DE). [EN]: Wikipedia. This was the first observation.
Keeled skimmer / Kleiner Blaupfeil (Orthetrum coerulescens)

Neue Libellen-Art in Wildert gesehen. Ich habe es vorlaeufig aus meinem Buch Libellen der Schweiz identifiziert als Kleiner Blaupfeil oder Orthetrum coerulescens, und Google Lens zeigt das gleiche. 2025-07-23 17:52:23 Wildert Orthetrum coerulescens / Kleiner Blaupfeil, der; Variant: Kleine Blaupfeil / Keeled skimmer. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia 🐉 (DE). Beobachtet in Wildert, Weibchen sind gelb, Männchen blau, und ich bin überrascht dass es heisst diese ist die kleinste Blaupfeil - so klein war es nicht!. [EN]: Wikipedia. This was the first observation.
Large red damselfly / Zygoptera (Pyrrhosoma nymphula)

Frühe Adonislibelle Männchen bei Wildert. 2026-05-02 18:16:29 Wildert Pyrrhosoma nymphula / Zygoptera, die; Variant: Frühe Adonislibelle / Large red damselfly. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia 🐉 (DE) 🐉 (CH). [EN]: Wikipedia. First observed on 05 August 2024 by the Lützelsee.
Red-veined darter / Frühe Heidelibelle (Sympetrum fonscolombii)

Frühe Heidelibelle bei Wildert. Sie sehen sehr ähnlich aus wie die Blutroten aber das Gelbe an den Flügeln ist eher die Frühe. 2025-08-30 16:42:47 Wildert Sympetrum fonscolombii / Frühe Heidelibelle, die / Red-veined darter; Variant: Nomad. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia 🐉 (DE). [EN]: Wikipedia. First observed on 18 August 2025 in Fehraltorf.
Ruddy darter / Blutrote Heidelibelle (Sympetrum sanguineum)

Blutrote Heidelibelle (Sympetrum sanguineum). 2025-09-03 16:54:13 Sympetrum sanguineum / Blutrote Heidelibelle, die / Ruddy darter. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia 🐉 (DE). Seen at Lützelsee. [EN]: Wikipedia. First observed on 05 August 2024 by the Lützelsee.
Damselfly (suborder Zygoptera)

Insects - paarende Libellen am Luetzelsee - dieses duennen sind anscheinend Damselflies, of the suborder Zygoptera. 2024-08-05 15:55:55 Lützelsee suborder Zygoptera / Damselfly; Variant: Damselflies. These are the smaller, thinner dragonflies. This was the first observation.
grasshoppers:
General: Data about grasshoppers of Switzerland can be found at GBIF, (Global Biodiversity Information Facility), unfortunately without photos.Crickets of Switzerland are listed on this Canadian webpage, including English names and photos with locations.
Italian locust / Italienische Schönschrecke (Calliptamus italicus)

GL says it's an Italian locust, scientifically known as Calliptamus italicus, a type of short-horned grasshopper. 2025-10-10 15:44:50 Levanto Calliptamus italicus / Italienische Schönschrecke, die / Italian locust. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. Seen for the first time between Levanto and Bonassola. This was the first observation.
Speckled Bush-Cricket / Punktierte Zartschrecke (Leptophyes punctatissima)

GL says Speckled Bush-Cricket (Leptophyes punctatissima). 2025-08-05 18:39:25 Fehraltorf Leptophyes punctatissima / Punktierte Zartschrecke, die / Speckled Bush-Cricket. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. This was the first observation.
Wood cricket / Waldgrille (Nemobius sylvestris)

GL says this likely a ground cricket (family Gryllidae), seen at Wildert, Halloween 2025. My best guess is a Waldgrille (Nemobius sylvestris). 2025-10-31 16:52:56 Wildert Nemobius sylvestris / Waldgrille, die / Wood cricket. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. Hmm, was the Halloween 2025 photo my first cricket picture?. This was the first observation.
flies:
General: Observed 48 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.
Small tortoiseshell / Kleine Fuchs (Aglais urticae)

GL says a Small Tortoiseshell (Aglais urticae), known in Switzerland as Kleiner Fuchs. 2026-04-23 11:28:20 Switzerland Aglais urticae / Kleine Fuchs, der / Small tortoiseshell. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. This was the first observation.
Orange tip / Aurorafalter (Anthocharis cardamines)

GL says a male Orange-tip (Anthocharis cardamines), known as the Aurorafalter in German. 2026-04-22 19:54:31 Fehraltorf Anthocharis cardamines / Aurorafalter, der / Orange tip. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. This was the first observation.
Early bumblebee / Wiesenhummel (Bombus pratorum)

GL says likely an Early Bumblebee (Bombus pratorum) or a similar species like Bombus pascuorum or Bombus perplexus due to its fuzzy, yellowish-brown appearance. 2025-07-30 09:29:21 Bombus pratorum / Wiesenhummel, die / Early bumblebee; Variant: Early-nesting bumblebee. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. This was the first observation.
Large Bee-fly / Wollschweber (Bombylius major)

GL sagt ein Großer Wollschweber (Bombylius major), der in der Schweiz recht häufig vorkommt. 2026-04-22 20:33:07 Fehraltorf Bombylius major / Wollschweber / Large Bee-fly. First observed on 17 April 2026 in Switzerland.
Geranium bronze / Pelargonien-Bläuling (Cacyreus marshalli)

GL says a Geranium Bronze (Cacyreus marshalli). . 2025-10-10 15:24:45 Levanto Cacyreus marshalli / Pelargonien-Bläuling, der / Geranium bronze. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. This was the first observation.
A kind of Clogmia albipunctata / Abflussfliege (Clogmia albipunctata)

GL says a drain fly (family Psychodidae), also commonly known as a moth fly, sink fly, or bathroom moth midge. 2026-04-23 08:29:34 Fehraltorf Clogmia albipunctata / Abflussfliege; Variant: Familie der / A kind of Clogmia albipunctata; Variants: bathroom moth midge, bathroom moth fly, drain fly. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. Google Lens hat gesagt, ich hätte sicher eine Schmetterlingsmücke (Familie Psychodidae), die genaue Art war nicht sicher, aber es sieht auf jeden Fall sehr ähnlich aus. Auf Deutsch ist dies eine Art Mücke, ein Zweiflügler, auf Englisch teilweise nur flies genannt, darum sage ich das hier. [EN]: Wikipedia. First observed on 30 September 2025 in Fehraltorf.
Small heath / Kleine Wiesenvögelchen (Coenonympha pamphilus)

GL says with unusual certainty that this is a Small Heath (Coenonympha pamphilus). 2025-08-18 19:18:04 Fehraltorf Coenonympha pamphilus / Kleine Wiesenvögelchen, das / Small heath. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. This was the first observation.
Fruit fly / Schwarzbäuchige Fruchtfliege (Drosophila melanogaster)

Fruit fly, didn't know they could be orange. 2025-07-22 18:20:36 Fehraltorf Drosophila melanogaster / Schwarzbäuchige Fruchtfliege / Fruit fly. Den deutschen Namen hier gibt's erst seit 1960. This was the first observation.
Marmalade hoverfly / Hainschwebfliege (Episyrphus balteatus)

On the right there may be a Marmeladen-Schwebfliege ( Episyrphus balteatus ). 2025-08-07 09:00:07 Fehraltorf Episyrphus balteatus / Hainschwebfliege; Variant: Marmeladen-Schwebfliege / Marmalade hoverfly. Sources: [EN]: Wikipedia. Wikpedia says this kind is the most abundant native hoverfly in Central Europe. This was the first observation.
European Drone Fly / Kleine Keilfleckschwebfliege (Eristalis arbustorum)

GL says this is likely a hoverfly, specifically a species from the genus Eristalis, such as the Tapered Drone Fly (Eristalis pertinax) or the European Drone Fly (Eristalis arbustorum). How many kinds have the black hourglass. 2025-08-03 13:51:14 Fehraltorf Eristalis arbustorum / Kleine Keilfleckschwebfliege, die / European Drone Fly. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. This was the first observation.
Tapered Drone Fly / Gemeine Keilfleckschwebfliege (Eristalis pertinax)

GL says this is likely a hoverfly, specifically a species from the genus Eristalis, such as the Tapered Drone Fly (Eristalis pertinax) or the European Drone Fly (Eristalis arbustorum). How many kinds have the black hourglass. 2025-08-03 13:51:14 Fehraltorf Eristalis pertinax / Gemeine Keilfleckschwebfliege / Tapered Drone Fly. Sources: [EN]: Wikipedia. This was the first observation.
Common drone fly / Mistbiene (Eristalis tenax)

Drone Fly (Eristalis tenax), also known as the Common Drone Fly or Mistbiene. 2025-08-05 13:18:20 Fehraltorf Eristalis tenax / Mistbiene, die; Variants: Mistbiene, Schlammbiene, Drohnenfliege, Scheinbienen-Keilfleckschwebfliege, Schlammbiene / Common drone fly. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. General: Drone flies are a type of hoverfly (there are around 460 kinds!), belonging to genus Eristalis within the family Syrphidae (hoverflies) and order Diptera (true flies).
a kind of Drone Fly. This was the first observation.
Family Syrphidae / Schwebfliege (Family Syrphidae)

GL meint eine Schwebfliege. 2025-07-06 13:23:24 Fehraltorf Family Syrphidae / Schwebfliege; Variants: Stehfliege, Schwirrfliege. This was the first observation.
Horsefly (Family Tabanidae)

GL says this insect on the bench in our back yard is a horsefly (family Tabanidae). 2026-03-04 14:22:22 Family Tabanidae / Horsefly. flies. This was the first observation.
Gattung Calliphora / Blaue Schmeissfliege (Gattung Calliphora)

GL sagt Blaue Schmeissfliege (Gattung Calliphora). 2026-05-04 09:56:33 Fehraltorf Gattung Calliphora / Blaue Schmeissfliege. This was the first observation.
Sun Fly / Gemeine Sumpfschwebfliege (Helophilus pendulus)

GL says a type of hoverfly, specifically resembling a species within the genus Helophilus, such as Helophilus trivittatus (the Large Tiger Hoverfly) or Helophilus pendulus (the Sun Fly). 2025-07-31 10:06:47 Helophilus pendulus / Gemeine Sumpfschwebfliege, die / Sun Fly. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. This was the first observation.
Large Tiger Hoverfly / Große Sumpfschwebfliege (Helophilus trivittatus)

GL says a type of hoverfly, specifically resembling a species within the genus Helophilus, such as Helophilus trivittatus (the Large Tiger Hoverfly) or Helophilus pendulus (the Sun Fly). 2025-07-31 10:06:47 Helophilus trivittatus / Große Sumpfschwebfliege, die / Large Tiger Hoverfly; Variant: A kind of Helophilus trivittatus. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. This was the first observation.
Black soldier fly / Schwarze Soldatenfliege (Hermetia illucens)

Google Lens says Black soldier fly, a little one in our back yard about 0.5cm long. 2025-06-25 12:56:17 Fehraltorf Hermetia illucens / Schwarze Soldatenfliege; Variant: Familie der / Black soldier fly. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. This was the first observation.
Woodland grayling / Große Waldportier (Hipparchia fagi)

GL says a species from the Grayling family (genus Hipparchia), specifically the Woodland Grayling (Hipparchia fagi) or potentially the Lesser Rock Grayling (Hipparchia genava). 2026-04-24 17:08:07 Hipparchia fagi / Große Waldportier, der / Woodland grayling. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. This was the first observation.
Lesser rock grayling (Hipparchia genava)

GL says a species from the Grayling family (genus Hipparchia), specifically the Woodland Grayling (Hipparchia fagi) or potentially the Lesser Rock Grayling (Hipparchia genava). 2026-04-24 17:08:07 Hipparchia genava / Lesser rock grayling. Sources: [EN]: Wikipedia. This was the first observation.
Pea blue, / Große Wanderbläuling (Lampides boeticus)

GL says this is a Long-tailed Blue (Lampides boeticus). 2025-10-10 15:53:04 Levanto Lampides boeticus / Große Wanderbläuling, der / Pea blue,; Variant: Long-tailed blue, is a small butterfly that belongs to lycaenids. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. This was the first observation.
The wood white butterfly of family Pieridae (Leptidea sinapis)

GL says this is likely a member of the Pieridae family, specifically a Small White (Pieris rapae) or a Wood White (Leptidea sinapis). 2026-04-19 17:37:04 Leptidea sinapis / The wood white butterfly of family Pieridae. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. This was the first observation.
Leptotes pirithous / Kleine Wanderbläuling (Leptotes pirithous)

GL says a Lang's short-tailed blue (Leptotes pirithous) - but actually a pair of them. 2025-10-10 15:19:22 Levanto Leptotes pirithous / Kleine Wanderbläuling, der. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. This was the first observation.
Common Greenbottle Fly / Goldfliege (Lucilia caesar)

It's almost impossible to identify these blow flies, but it looks to me like a Lucilia caesar or common greenbottle fly. 2025-10-21 13:24:00 Walensee Lucilia caesar / Goldfliege / Common Greenbottle Fly. Sources: [EN]: Wikipedia. GL said it could also be a Greenbottle Fly (Lucilia illustris), and other species look quite similar, but this looked like the best match to me. This was the first observation.
Spotted lanternfly / Gepunktete Laternenträgerzikade (Lycorma delicatula)

Background - Insects - Spotted lanternfly on the Skyline Drive - never heard of them before. 2024-09-28 18:50:28 Shenandoah National Park Lycorma delicatula / Gepunktete Laternenträgerzikade, die / Spotted lanternfly. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. Seen on the Skyline Drive - never heard of them before. This was the first observation.
Chalkhill blue / Silbergrüne Bläuling (Lysandra coridon)

GL says a Chalkhill Blue (Lysandra coridon). 2025-08-12 15:28:41 Klausenpass Lysandra coridon / Silbergrüne Bläuling, der / Chalkhill blue. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. This was the first observation.
Meadow brown / Große Ochsenauge (Maniola jurtina)

GL says this appears to be a Meadow Brown ( Maniola jurtina ). 2025-08-19 10:02:20 Pfäffikersee Maniola jurtina / Große Ochsenauge, das / Meadow brown. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. This was the first observation.
Marbled white / Schachbrett (Melanargia galathea)

GL says a Marbled White butterfly (scientific name Melanargia galathea), and I agree. 2025-07-29 15:00:25 Melanargia galathea / Schachbrett, das / Marbled white. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. This was the first observation.
Ladder-backed hoverfly / Matte Schwarzkopfschwebfliege (Melanostoma scalare)

A type of hoverfly, and the yellow-black stripes match the Melanostoma scalare (Ladder-backed Hover Fly). 2025-08-03 17:14:39 Fehraltorf Melanostoma scalare / Matte Schwarzkopfschwebfliege, die / Ladder-backed hoverfly; Variants: Chequered hoverfly, Ladder-backed hover fly. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. Web pages describe the yellow shapes, whereas I was looking at the black parts and seeing a capital W or a flying bird. I saw a female, as Wikipedia says 'yellow markings of the male are roundish or diamond-shaped, while those of the female are triangular patches'. This was the first observation.
Noon fly / Rinderfliege (Mesembrina meridiana)

GL says this is a noon fly, Mesembrina meridiana. 2025-10-15 13:36:27 Mesembrina meridiana / Rinderfliege, die; Variant: Mittagsfliege / Noon fly. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. A fly with wings that are red near the body, seen at Wildert in October 2025 for the first time. This was the first observation.
Housefly / Stubenfliege (Musca domestica)

Stubenfliege (Musca domestica), auf dem Tisch im Garten. 2025-07-06 13:44:56 Fehraltorf Musca domestica / Stubenfliege / Housefly. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. This was the first observation.
Speckled wood (Pararge aegeria)

GL says based on the markings, this is a Speckled Wood butterfly (Pararge aegeria). 2026-04-24 17:06:30 Pararge aegeria / Speckled wood. Sources: [EN]: Wikipedia. This was the first observation.
Flesh fly / Ein Art der echten Fliegen (Phaonia subventa)

GL says a flesh fly, belonging to the family Sarcophagidae and the genus Sarcophaga, most likely a common flesh fly (Sarcophaga carnaria). 2026-04-19 12:18:45 Phaonia subventa / Ein Art der echten Fliegen / Flesh fly; Variants: A kind of Phaonia subventa, Muscid fly. Sources: [EN]: Wikipedia. Similar to a housefly, but the rear half is reddish, the eyes are separated by a black and gray part. This was the first observation.
Yellow-spotted Sedge (Philopotamus montanus)

Google Lens suggests, convincingly, that this is a Longhorned caddisfly, family Leptoceridae. 2025-07-17 12:25:37 Kaltbrunner-Riet Philopotamus montanus / Yellow-spotted Sedge; Variant: caddisfly. This was the first observation.
Cluster fly / Gemeine Wurmfliege (Pollenia rudis)

GL says a cluster fly (Pollenia rudis) on our house. 2026-03-05 12:24:43 Pollenia rudis / Gemeine Wurmfliege; Variant: Graugelbe Polsterfliege / Cluster fly; Variant: Common cluster fly. Sources: [EN]: Wikipedia. Seen February 2026 on out house. First observed on 26 February 2026 in Fehraltorf.
Downlooker Snipefly (Rhagio scolopaceus)

GL says it's a snipe fly (family Rhagionidae), most likely the Downlooker Snipefly (Rhagio scolopaceus). 2026-05-04 17:04:56 Fehraltorf Rhagio scolopaceus / Downlooker Snipefly. This was the first observation.
Common Snout-hoverfly / Gemeine Schnauzenschwebfliege (Rhingia campestris)

GL says a Common Snout-hoverfly, specifically Rhingia campestris, also known as the Heineken fly, auf Deutsch Gemeine Schnauzenschwebfliege. 2025-09-12 13:43:48 Fehraltorf Rhingia campestris / Gemeine Schnauzenschwebfliege / Common Snout-hoverfly; Variant: Heineken fly. Seen in my rock garden for the first time in September, 2025. This was the first observation.
Common flesh fly / Graue Fleischfliege (Sarcophaga carnaria)

GL meint eine Graue Fleischfliege (Sarcophaga carnaria), auch als Gemeine Fleischfliege oder Aasfliege bekannt. 2026-05-10 08:01:23 Fehraltorf Sarcophaga carnaria / Graue Fleischfliege, die / Common flesh fly. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. Of course there are other kinds of flesh flies, and I'll never know for sure which kind it was. Oxford English Dictionary says "The term flesh fly refers to insects in the family Sarcophagidae, derived from their larvae's (maggots) habit of feeding on decaying flesh, carrion, and manure.". First observed on 21 October 2025 in Walensee.
Long hoverfly / Gewöhnliche Langbauchschwebfliege (Sphaerophoria scripta)

The one on the left could be a Sphaerophoria scripta, or long hoverfly. 2025-08-07 12:22:13 Fehraltorf Sphaerophoria scripta / Gewöhnliche Langbauchschwebfliege, die / Long hoverfly. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. This was the first observation.
Summer tanager (Summer tanager)

MerlinBirdID says Summer tanager, which I find unlikely. 2023-04-01 07:17:00 Yucatan Summer tanager. Sources: [EN]: Wikipedia. This was the first observation.
Thick-legged hoverfly / Kleine Mistbiene (Syritta pipiens)

Probably a thick-legged hoverfly, syritta pipiens. 2024-06-16 13:41:33 Fehraltorf Syritta pipiens / Kleine Mistbiene, die / Thick-legged hoverfly. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. One of the most common species in the insect family Syrphidae. This fly originates from Europe and is currently distributed across Eurasia and North America. They are fast and nimble fliers.. This was the first observation.
Common Flower Fly / Große Schwebfliege (Syrphus ribesii)

Close-up of a Common Flower Fly or Syrphus ribesii. 2025-10-31 14:30:13 Wildert Syrphus ribesii / Große Schwebfliege, die / Common Flower Fly. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. The first one I saw seemed to like sitting on my telephoto lens!. First observed on 31 October 2025 in Wildert.
Winter gnat / Wintermücke (Triochera annulata)

Winter gnat, probably Triochera annulata, seen before our front door. 2026-04-15 12:15:52 Fehraltorf Triochera annulata / Wintermuecke / Winter gnat; Variant: Winter crane flies. Wikipedia says long, thin, delicate insects seen in fall, spring, and sometimes winter. This was the first observation.
Painted lady / Distelfalter (Vanessa cardui)

Schmetterling in unserem Garten, Google Lens meint ein painted lady (Vanessa cardui), auf Deutsch Distelfalter, ähnlich wie ein Klein-er Fuchs oder Red ad-miral. 2016-07-21 13:37:30 Fehraltorf Vanessa cardui / Distelfalter, der / Painted lady; Variant: Formerly in North America cosmopolitan. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. This was the first observation.
Hornet mimic hoverfly / Hornissenschwebfliege (Volucella zonaria)

Hornissenschwebfliege - also doch keine Biene! 2025-06-23 18:30:55 Fehraltorf Volucella zonaria / Hornissenschwebfliege, die / Hornet mimic hoverfly. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. This was the first observation.
Whooper swan (Whooper swans)

Whooper swans, Iceland. 2015-06-03 16:01:12 Whooper swans / Whooper swan. Sources: [EN]: Wikipedia. This was the first observation.
Scuttle fly (family Phoridae)

GL says this is likely a scuttle fly, also known as a hump-backed fly, from the family Phoridae. 2025-10-18 09:36:57 Fehraltorf family Phoridae / Scuttle fly; Variant: hump-backed fly. GL says it looks like a scuttle fly, but I think identifying it is impossible. This was the first observation.
Drain fly (family Psychodidae)

GL says a drain fly (family Psychodidae), also commonly known as a moth fly, sink fly, or bathroom moth midge. 2026-04-23 08:29:34 Fehraltorf family Psychodidae / Drain fly; Variants: moth fly, sink fly, bathroom moth midge. This was the first observation.
aphids:
General: Observed 2 kinds.
European potter wasp (Ancistrocerus gazella)

European potter wasp, Ancistrocerus gazella, seems like a good guess to me. 2025-10-10 15:39:07 Levanto Ancistrocerus gazella / European potter wasp; Variant: European tube wasp. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. This was the first observation.
Brown citrus aphid (Toxoptera citricidus)

I wrote black beetle, but Google Lens says a dark-colored aphid, possibly a species like the brown citrus aphid (Toxoptera citricidus) or a Uroleucon species, both of which are shiny black in adult form. 2024-06-15 13:57:46 Fehraltorf Toxoptera citricidus / Brown citrus aphid. My sighting could also be an Uroleucon species, both of which are shiny black in adult form. This was the first observation.
butterflies:
General: Observed 26 kinds.
In Switzerland there are hundreds of species of butterflies. The book I bought years ago (Schmetterlinge by Roland Gerstmeier, published by Kosmos) covers about 100 of them. nationalpark.ch says there are 3,700 kinds! The excellent pieris.ch web site has much information in German about 211 species. The butterfly symbol, 🦋, when used here has links to many more details on those pages.
European peacock / Tagpfauenauge (Aglais io)

Tagpfauenauge oder Aglais io, formerly inachis io in unserem Garten. 2025-07-15 14:22:47 Aglais io / Tagpfauenauge, das / European peacock; Variants: European peacock,, The peacock butterfly, peacock butterfly. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. Previously Inachis io. Wikipedia says: Io is a figure in Greek mythology. She was a priestess of Hera in Argos.. This was the first observation.
A kind of Agriphila selasella (Agriphila selasella)

GL sagt wahrscheinlich eine Zünslerart, höchstwahrscheinlich eine Agriphila selasella. 2025-08-18 19:24:26 Fehraltorf Agriphila selasella / A kind of Agriphila selasella. Sources: [EN]: Wikipedia. This was the first observation.
Ringlet / Brauner Waldvogel (Aphantopus hyperantus)

TBI, wahrscheinlich Braune Waldvogel. 2025-08-16 16:38:21 Fehraltorf Aphantopus hyperantus / Brauner Waldvogel, der; Variant: Braune Waldvogel / Ringlet. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. Nach Wikpedia eine Art Tagefalter. Und ist es nicht lustig, wenn ein Schmetterling-Name 'Vogel' beinhaltet. [EN]: Wikipedia. First observed on 25 June 2024.
Silver-washed fritillary / Kaisermantel (Argynnis paphia)

Kaisermantel. 2025-08-06 12:16:53 Fehraltorf Argynnis paphia / Kaisermantel, der / Silver-washed fritillary. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. First observed on 18 July 2025.
Mediterranean demoiselle (Calopteryx hämorrhoidalis)

At the north side of Levanto, GL says it's a Mediterranean demoiselle (Calopteryx haemorrhoidalis). 2025-10-10 15:15:13 Levanto Calopteryx hämorrhoidalis / Mediterranean demoiselle. Seen in Italy, may not appear in Switzerland. This was the first observation.
Light Emerald / Perlglanzspanner (Campaea margaritata)

GL says perhaps the Light Emerald (Campaea margaritata) moth - on a window at Puregym. 2025-08-29 14:08:16 Wald Fehraltorf Campaea margaritata / Perlglanzspanner, der / Light Emerald. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. Seen on a window at Puregym in Uster!. This was the first observation.
Dingy Footman moth (Collita griseola)

GL says most likely a Dingy Footman moth. 2025-08-14 00:09:07 Fehraltorf Collita griseola / Dingy Footman moth; Variant: Dingy footman. Sources: [EN]: Wikipedia. This was the first observation.
A kind of Crambus pascuella / Grasmotte (Crambus pascuella)

Eventuell eine Grasmotte (Crambus pascuella). 2025-08-18 19:32:53 Fehraltorf Crambus pascuella / Grasmotte / A kind of Crambus pascuella. Sources: [EN]: Wikipedia. This was the first observation.
Monarch butterfly / Monarchfalter (Danaus plexippus)

A monarch butterfly! I didn't know they could be seen in Madeira, but it's true. 2023-03-16 15:35:48 Madeira Danaus plexippus / Monarchfalter, der / Monarch butterfly; Variant: Simply monarch. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. butterflies. [EN]: Wikipedia. This was the first observation.
Larva of the Drinker Moth / Grasglucke (Euthrix potatoria)

GL says the larva of the Drinker Moth (Euthrix potatoria). 2025-08-13 18:48:23 Klausenpass Euthrix potatoria / Grasglucke, die / Larva of the Drinker Moth. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. This was the first observation.
Brimstone butterfly / Zitronenfalter (Gonepteryx rhamni)

A Common Brimstone (Gonepteryx rhamni), known in German as the Zitronenfalter, bein Spielplatz daheim. 2026-04-20 11:33:42 Alpweg Gonepteryx rhamni / Zitronenfalter, der / Brimstone butterfly; Variant: Common brimstone. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. First observed on 10 August 2025.
A kind of Halictus ligatus (Halictus ligatus)

Honigbiene (Apis mellifera) oder eine Furchenbiene (z.B. Halictus ligatus). 2025-08-05 11:52:42 Fehraltorf Halictus ligatus / A kind of Halictus ligatus. Sources: [EN]: Wikipedia. This was the first observation.
Large wall brown / Braunauge (Lasiommata maera)

GL says a Wall Brown, scientifically known as Lasiommata megera. 2025-10-10 15:27:01 Levanto Lasiommata maera / Braunauge, das / Large wall brown. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. This was the first observation.
White Admiral / Kleine Eisvogel (Limenitis camilla)

GL says White Admiral, specifically Limenitis camilla, seen by Wildert in Zuercher Oberland. 2025-06-28 14:04:55 Wildert Limenitis camilla / Kleine Eisvogel, der / White Admiral. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. This was the first observation.
Hummingbird hawk-moth / Taubenschwänzchen (Macroglossum stellatarum)

Hummingbird hawk-moth (Macroglossum stellatarum) vorm Haus. 2026-02-24 15:39:25 Fehraltorf Macroglossum stellatarum / Taubenschwänzchen, das; Variant: Taubenschwänzchen / Hummingbird hawk-moth. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. For some reason not in the pieris.ch site I usually refer to? Wikipedia says about the family: Die Schwärmer (Sphingidae) sind eine Familie der Schmetterlinge. Sie kommen weltweit mit etwa 1200 Arten vor, davon sind 40 aus Europa bekannt,[1] in Mitteleuropa leben davon 21 Arten. First observed on 21 July 2016 in Fehraltorf.
Dryad / Blauäugige Waldportier (Minois dryas)

Google Lens says it's a dryad butterfly. 2025-07-17 14:08:58 Kaltbrunner-Riet Minois dryas / Blauäugige Waldportier, der / Dryad. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. Saw one in Kaltbrunner-Riet. This was the first observation.
Chimney Sweeper Moth / Schwarzspanner (Odezia atrata)

GL says this is a Chimney Sweeper Moth (Odezia atrata). 2025-08-13 18:52:05 Klausenpass Odezia atrata / Schwarzspanner, der / Chimney Sweeper Moth. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. . This was the first observation.
Fennel Swallowtail / Familie der (Papilio polyxenes)

Google Lens says this is a Fennel Swallowtail caterpillar - not sure, but they look similar. 2024-06-14 18:42:53 Pfäffikersee Papilio polyxenes / Familie der / Fennel Swallowtail. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. Here a caterpillar - not sure, but they look similar. This was the first observation.
Scarce Large Blue (Phengaris rebeli)

GL says likely a Phengaris rebeli, also known as the Scarce Large Blue or Rebel's Large Blue. 2025-08-10 18:33:06 Phengaris rebeli / Scarce Large Blue; Variant: Rebel's Large Blue. This was the first observation.
Green-veined white / Rapsweissling (Pieris napi)

Green-veined White (Pieris napi) by Maggia, Ticino. 2025-07-31 11:51:55 Pieris napi / Rapsweissling, der; Variants: Rapsweißling, Grünader-Weissling / Green-veined white. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. This was the first observation.
Small White, also known as the Cabbage White / Kleiner Kohlweissling (Pieris rapae)

Kleiner Kohlweissling, Small Whiteplay daheim. 2025-08-08 12:08:55 Fehraltorf Pieris rapae / Kleiner Kohlweissling, der; Variant: Kleine Kohlweißling / Small White, also known as the Cabbage White. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: WikipediaURL. A common butterfly species in Switzerland. See https://insectic.com/butterfly-species-switzerland/#google_vignette. First observed on 17 August 2024 in Fehraltorf.
Comma butterfly / C-Falter (Polygonia c-album)

GL says this is a Comma butterfly, specifically Polygonia c-album. 2025-08-14 12:00:57 Fehraltorf Polygonia c-album / C-Falter / Comma butterfly. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. Also classified as a Nymphalis c-album. This was the first observation.
Common blue butterfly / Hauhechel-Bläuling (Polyommatus icarus)

GL says a Common Blue butterfly (Polyommatus icarus). 2025-08-13 18:44:51 Klausenpass Polyommatus icarus / Hauhechel-Bläuling, der; Variant: Hauhechel-Bläuling / Common blue butterfly; Variant: European common blue. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. First observed on 20 July 2025 in Schwändi.
Red admiral / Admiral (Vanessa atalanta)

A tough-ass Admiral, still flying around at 11C. 2025-10-12 11:15:55 Fehraltorf Vanessa atalanta / Admiral, der / Red admiral; Variant: The red admirable. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. First observed on 21 February 2023 in Staldenweiher.
Silver-ground carpet / Schwarzbraunbinden-Blattspanner (Xanthorhoe montanata)

Google Lens says a Silver-Ground Carpet (scientific name Xanthorhoe montanata). 2025-07-26 11:37:36 Fehraltorf Xanthorhoe montanata / Schwarzbraunbinden-Blattspanner, der / Silver-ground carpet. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. Actually a moth - are they not included from the butterfly web site?. This was the first observation.
Six-spot Burnet moth / Sechsfleck-Widderchen (Zygaena filipendulae)

GL says this is a Burnet moth, likely a Six-spot Burnet (Zygaena filipendulae). 2025-08-12 18:27:43 Klausenpass Zygaena filipendulae / Sechsfleck-Widderchen, das / Six-spot Burnet moth; Variant: Six-spot burnet. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. This was the first observation.
wasps:
General: Observed 5 kinds.
Great Potter Wasp / Große Lehmwespe (Delta unguiculatum)

TBI, GL says a potter wasp, possibly from the genus Delta or Eumenes, such as Delta unguiculatum or Eumenes coarctatus. 2025-08-05 13:16:06 Fehraltorf Delta unguiculatum / Große Lehmwespe, die / Great Potter Wasp; Variant: A kind of Delta unguiculatum. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. a kind of potter wasp. This was the first observation.
Mediterranean Potter Wasp (Eumenes mediterraneus)

TBI - GL says a potter wasp, likely belonging to the genus Eumenes. More specifically, it resembles species like Eumenes coarctatus or Eumenes mediterraneus. 2025-08-05 13:17:02 Fehraltorf Eumenes mediterraneus / Mediterranean Potter Wasp; Variant: A kind of Eumenes mediterraneus. Sources: [EN]: Wikipedia. a kind of potter wasp. This was the first observation.
European paper wasp / Papierwespe (Polistes dominula)

GL suggests a European paper wasp (Polistes dominula). 2025-08-07 12:18:15 Fehraltorf Polistes dominula / Papierwespe, die; Variant: Haus-Feldwespe / European paper wasp; Variant: European paper wasp#2. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. There are no doubt lots of kinds of paper wasps, not sure this is the right kind.. First observed on 01 August 2024.
Sabre wasp / Holzwespen-Schlupfwespe (Rhyssa persuasoria)

GL meint eine Holzwespen-Schlupfwespe (Rhyssa persuasoria). 2025-09-03 08:59:57 Wildert Rhyssa persuasoria / Holzwespen-Schlupfwespe / Sabre wasp. Google Lens sagt, "die Holzwespen-Schlupfwespe ist keine Wespe, sondern gehört zur Familie der Schlupfwespen (Ichneumonidae)", but in Wikipedia it sounds as if they are. Go figure! The family Ichneumonidae, also known as ichneumon wasps, ichneumonid wasps, ichneumonids, or Darwin wasps (and if Darwin thought they were wasps, I guess they are).. First observed on 02 September 2025 in Fehraltorf.
Violet carpenter bee / Große Blaue Holzbiene, auch Blauschwarze (Xylocopa violacea)

GL meint eine Große Blaue Holzbiene (Xylocopa violacea). 2025-08-29 16:01:21 Wald Fehraltorf Xylocopa violacea / Große Blaue Holzbiene, auch Blauschwarze, die / Violet carpenter bee. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. This was the first observation.
hornets:
General: Observed 1 kinds.
European hornet / Europäische Hornisse (Vespa crabro)

GL sagt eine Europäische Hornisse (Vespa crabro), die einzige in der Schweiz heimische Hornissenart. 2026-05-19 15:41:22 Fehraltorf Vespa crabro / Europäische Hornisse, die; Variant: Hornisse / European hornet; Variant: European hornet#2. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. Hornissen sind deutlich größer als Wespen oder Bienen gelb-schwarz, wobei der Brustbereich oft rötlich-braun gefärbt ist. Verbreitung in der Schweiz: Die Europäische Hornisse ist in der Schweiz heimisch und weit verbreitet.. [EN]: Wikipedia. First observed on 10 August 2025.
truebugs:
General: I had no idea that biologists use the term bugs, but these are referred to as 'true bugs'! The Smithsonian says, 'The True Bugs are insects that have two pairs of wings.'
Southern green shield bug / die Grüne Reiswanze (Nezara viridula)

GoogleLens says the green one is a nymph of the Southern Green Stink Bug, also known as the Green Vegetable Bug or Southern Green Shield Bug (Nezara viridula). 2025-07-25 15:41:12 Fehraltorf Nezara viridula / die Grüne Reiswanze / Southern green shield bug; Variant: southern green stink bug. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. The order Hemiptera includes what are called 'true bugs', so I'm using that as a type for now. This was the first observation.
Meadow Spittlebug / Wiesenschaumzikade (Philaenus spumarius)

Meadow Spittlebug on the door to our patio in Fehraltorf. 2025-07-14 15:00:18 Fehraltorf Philaenus spumarius / Wiesenschaumzikade, die / Meadow Spittlebug; Variant: Meadow froghopper. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. GoogleLens says, this species is highly variable in color and pattern, typically ranging from yellowish, brownish, or black, with various markings. It is known for its froglike appearance and powerful leaping ability. It belongs to the family Aphrophoridae, commonly known as spittlebugs or froghoppers. This was the first observation.
Fire bug / Gemeine Feuerwanze (Pyrrhocoris apterus)

A fire bug (Pyrrhocoris apterus) with the typical voodoo mask. 2025-08-22 14:38:15 Fehraltorf Pyrrhocoris apterus / Gemeine Feuerwanze, die / Fire bug. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. Known for the 'voodoo mask' on its back! Very common around our house, but I've never seen the groups of 100s or 1000s that are described at Wikipedia. Note that what are called 'true bugs' in English by biologists are 'Wanzen' in German.. First observed on 22 August 2025 in Fehraltorf. This was the earliest appearance in winter/spring/summer.
Bright-spotted Groundbug (Rhyparochromus vulgaris)

GL says a Bright-spotted Groundbug (Rhyparochromus vulgaris), a species of dirt-colored seed bug native to Europe and commonly found in Switzerland. 2026-04-16 16:27:51 Europe Rhyparochromus vulgaris / Bright-spotted Groundbug. GL says a Bright-spotted Groundbug (Rhyparochromus vulgaris) is a species of dirt-colored seed bug native to Europe and commonly found in Switzerland. This was the first observation.
Schnake / Familie Tipulidae (Schnake)

GL meint eine Schnake (Familie Tipulidae), eine der größten einheimischen Mückenarten, tot gefunden auf der Terasse. 2026-05-09 08:01:59 Fehraltorf Schnake / Familie Tipulidae. This was the first observation.
Water striders (genus Gerris)

GL says these are water striders, likely from the genus Gerris or Aquarius. 2026-04-20 16:02:29 Alpweg genus Gerris / Water striders. Sources: [EN]: Wikipedia. Genus Gerrus includes 43 species! Water striders are also of genus Aquarius, which includdes 19 species. A common kind in Switzerland is Gerris lacustris, commonly known as the common pond skater or common water strider - https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gerris_lacustris. This was the first observation.
Wood gnat (genus Sylvicola)

GL says this is a wood gnat (also known as a window-gnat), likely from the genus Sylvicola. It is on our kitchen window... 2026-04-21 08:40:11 Fehraltorf genus Sylvicola / Wood gnat; Variant: Window gnat. I like the name window gnat, since I saw it on our kitchen window!. This was the first observation.
spiders:
General: Observed 13 kinds.
European garden spider (Araneus diadematus)

GL says European garden spider (Araneus diadematus), also known as the cross orbweaver or diadem spider. 2025-08-07 19:55:24 Fehraltorf Araneus diadematus / European garden spider; Variants: European garden spider cross orbweaver diadem spider orangie cross spider and crowned orb weaver, cross orbweaver, diadem spider. Sources: [EN]: Wikipedia. First observed on 03 August 2025 in Fehraltorf.
Money Spider / Gemeine Baldachinspinne (Linyphia triangularis)

Money spider as photographed earlier with my cell phone. 2025-09-18 15:33:38 Fehraltorf Linyphia triangularis / Gemeine Baldachinspinne, die / Money Spider. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. First observed on 18 September 2025 in Fehraltorf.
White Crab Spider / Veränderliche Krabbenspinne (Misumena vatia)

Unter der Biene siehr man was ich glaube eine Veränderliche Krabbenspinnen (Misumena vatia) ist. 2026-05-21 07:42:03 Misumena vatia / Veränderliche Krabbenspinne, die / White Crab Spider; Variants: A kind of Misumena vatia, Goldenrod Crab Spider. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. First observed on 17 April 2026 in Fehraltorf.
Long-bodied cellar spider / Große Zitterspinne (Pholcus phalangioides)

GL says this is a Cellar Spider, commonly known as a Daddy Long-legs spider, or specifically Pholcus phalangioides. 2025-09-28 18:01:57 Fehraltorf Pholcus phalangioides / Große Zitterspinne, die / Long-bodied cellar spider. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. GL says Characteristics of the Long-bodied Cellar Spider Appearance: They are known for their long, thin, and delicate legs and a small, oval-shaped body. Habitat: These spiders prefer warm environments, which is why they are frequently found in basements, corners of rooms, and other sheltered areas inside human dwellings. Behavior: They are harmless to humans and are often seen hanging upside down in their messy, irregular webs. . This was the first observation.
Nursery Web Spider / Listspinne (Pisaura mirabilis)

GL says a Nursery Web Spider (Pisaura mirabilis). 2026-04-30 16:29:24 Fehraltorf Pisaura mirabilis / Listspinne, die / Nursery Web Spider. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. Saw this one on our doormat, not in the nursery room. First observed on 30 September 2025 in Fehraltorf.
Fleecy jumping spider (Pseudeuophrys lanigera)

In Anna's bedroom, GL says a Fleecy Jumping Spider (Pseudeuophrys lanigera). 2026-03-06 07:49:12 Pseudeuophrys lanigera / Fleecy jumping spider. spiders. This was the first observation.
Jumping spider (Salticidae)

GL says most likely a Zebra jumping spider (Salticus scenicus) or a closely related species like the Half-edged wall jumping spider (Menemerus semilimbatus). Its dinner is said to be a mayfly exuvia—an empty exoskeleton. 2026-04-26 19:17:53 Fehraltorf Salticidae / Jumping spider. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jumping_spider,https://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Springspinnen. Sources: [EN]: WikipediaWikipedia. First observed on 17 August 2025 in Fehraltorf.
Zebra jumping spider (Salticus scenicus)

GL says most likely a Zebra jumping spider (Salticus scenicus) or a closely related species like the Half-edged wall jumping spider (Menemerus semilimbatus). Its dinner is said to be a mayfly exuvia—an empty exoskeleton. 2026-04-26 19:17:53 Fehraltorf Salticus scenicus / Zebra jumping spider. https://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mauer-Zebraspringspinne,https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Zebra_spider. Sources: [EN]: WikipediaWikipedia. This was the first observation.
Blackwall's ground spider / Kleine Mausspinne (Scotophaeus blackwalli)

GL says possibly a Scotophaeus blackwalli (also known as the Blackwall's ground spider). 2025-08-22 14:38:49 Fehraltorf Scotophaeus blackwalli / Kleine Mausspinne, die / Blackwall's ground spider. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. This was the first observation.
Triangulate Cobweb Spider / Dreiecks-Fettspinne (Steatoda triangulosa)

GL says a Triangulate Cobweb Spider (Steatoda triangulosa) in our ground floor bathroom. 2025-08-22 10:25:52 Fehraltorf Steatoda triangulosa / Dreiecks-Fettspinne, die / Triangulate Cobweb Spider. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. This was the first observation.
Nosferatu spider / Nosferatu-Spinne (Zoropsis spinimana)

At our house, GL says this is a species of wolf spider (family Lycosidae). 2026-05-17 17:29:44 Zoropsis spinimana / Nosferatu-Spinne, die / Nosferatu spider; Variant: False Wolf Spider. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. Cool that my first Nosferatu spider ID happened a day before Halloween. GL says it's often mistaken for a wolf spider due to its size and appearance, but can be distinguished by the unique pattern on its cephalothorax, which resembles the face of the fictional character Nosferatu. First observed on 30 October 2025 in Fehraltorf.
Dwarf spider (genus Erigone)

GL says most likely a species of dwarf spider or money spider from the genus Erigone (family Linyphiidae). 2026-04-21 12:59:28 Fehraltorf genus Erigone / Dwarf spider; Variant: money spider. family Linyphiidae. This was the first observation.
Copper sun jumper / Kupfrige Sonnenspringspinne (heliophanus cupreus)

GL says this is a copper sun jumper or heliophanus cupreus. 2025-06-19 16:53:30 Fehraltorf heliophanus cupreus / Kupfrige Sonnenspringspinne, die / Copper sun jumper. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. This was the first observation.
otherarachnoids:
General: Wikipedia says arachnida includes, among others, spiders, scorpions, ticks, mites, pseudoscorpions, harvestmen, camel spiders, whip spiders and vinegaroons. I have listed spiders separately; added this for harvestmen or daddy long legs, as we called them.
Saddleback harvestman / Gemeine Gebirgsweberknecht (Mitopus morio)

Schwierig zu identifizieren aber sieht ähnlich aus wie der Gemeine Gebirgsweberknecht (Mitopus morio), der bei uns viel vorkommt. 2025-09-17 15:24:17 Mitopus morio / Gemeine Gebirgsweberknecht, der / Saddleback harvestman; Variant: A kind of Mitopus morio. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. There are so many kinds of daddy long legs in Switzerland - 50 to 70 - so it's hard to know which kind you'll see. After examining photos online, I feel that the one in our back yard looks most like a Gemeine Gebirgsweberknecht. iNaturalist.org calls this kind a saddleback harvestman, which I find a good description. This was the first observation.
louses:
General: Observed 1 kinds.
Common rough woodlouse / Kellerassel (Porcellio scaber)

GL says likely a common rough woodlouse (Porcellio scaber). 2025-08-03 07:07:48 Fehraltorf Porcellio scaber / Kellerassel, die / Common rough woodlouse. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. This was the first observation.

What are these?:

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

GL says likely a Brown-striped Digger Bee (Amegilla garrula) or the Four-banded Flower-Bee (Anthophora quadrimaculata). 2026-04-08 16:08:15 Amegilla garrula / Brown-striped digger bee. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. . This was the first observation.
Tawny mining bee / Rotpelzige Sandbiene (Andrena fulva)

GL says Tawny mining bee (Andrena fulva). 2026-02-26 14:03:00 Fehraltorf Andrena fulva / Rotpelzige Sandbiene, die / Tawny mining bee. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. Seen on one of the first warm days in February 2026 on the Winterflieder. This was the first observation.
Hairy-footed Flower Bee / Gemeine Pelzbiene (Anthophora plumipes)

GL sagt eine Wildbiene, sehr wahrscheinlich eine Gemeine Pelzbiene (Anthophora plumipes). 2026-05-07 16:18:34 Fehraltorf Anthophora plumipes / Gemeine Pelzbiene, die / Hairy-footed Flower Bee. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. bees. [EN]: Wikipedia. First observed on 04 March 2026.
Four-banded Flower-Bee / Familie der (Anthophora quadrimaculata)

GL says maybe a Four-banded Flower-Bee (Anthophora quadrimaculata). 2026-04-08 16:13:47 Anthophora quadrimaculata / Familie der / Four-banded Flower-Bee. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. . First observed on 08 April 2026.
Western honey bee / Westliche Honigbiene (Apis mellifera)

I like this view of a European honey bee with its fuzz and thirst. 2025-08-19 15:08:44 Pfäffikersee Apis mellifera / Westliche Honigbiene, die / Western honey bee; Variant: European honey bee. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. classic appearance of a honey bee, characterized by its fuzzy, brownish body, segmented abdomen, and visible wings, consistent with the Apis mellifera species. GoogleLens says the Western honey bee (Apis mellifera) is the most common species of honey bee worldwide and is found throughout Europe, including Switzerland, where it plays a vital role in agriculture as a pollinator. . First observed on 05 June 2024 in Fehraltorf.
German cockroach / Deutsche Schabe (Blattella germanica)

GL says this is a cockroach, most likely a German cockroach (Blattella germanica). 2025-09-18 14:06:34 Fehraltorf Blattella germanica / Deutsche Schabe, die; Variants: Küchenschabe, die Gemeine Küchenschabe / German cockroach; Variants: German cockroach#2, croton bug. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. Strange name - According to Wikipedia, it was discovered recently that it mutated slightly aout 2000 years ago from the Asian cockroach. And it has wings, but can barely fly. These are the annoying ones you kill if you find them in your house. The German page says they're generally active at night, and seeing them during the day means there are too many of them or something else isn't right.. This was the first observation.
Garden Bumblebee / Gartenhummel (Bombus hortorum)

White-tailed bee, likely a Gartenhummel, Bombus hortorum - look at that - thing? Tongue? Stinger? 2025-06-19 12:29:19 Fehraltorf Bombus hortorum / Gartenhummel / Garden Bumblebee; Variant: Small garden bumblebee. Sources: [EN]: WikipediaURL. Bees, Wasps and Ants (Hymenoptera), see also https://observation.org/species/1700/observations/. First observed on 19 June 2025 in Fehraltorf.
Tree bumblebee or new garden bumblebee / Baumhummel (Bombus hypnorum)

This is hard to identify but could be a Tree bumblebee or new garden bumblebee, bonbus hypnorum. 2025-06-19 12:26:19 Fehraltorf Bombus hypnorum / Baumhummel, die / Tree bumblebee or new garden bumblebee; Variants: Tree bumblebee, New garden bumblebee. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: WikipediaWikipedia. A species of bumblebee common [on] the European continent and parts of Asia. See https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bombus_hypnorum. This was the first observation.
Heath humble-bee / Heidehummel (Bombus jonellus)

Heidehummel as seen from the side. 2025-06-28 13:06:02 Fehraltorf Bombus jonellus / Heidehummel, die / Heath humble-bee; Variant: small heath bumblebee. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. First observed on 28 June 2025 in Fehraltorf.
Common carder bee / Ackerhummel (Bombus pascuorum)

GL sagt wahrscheinlich eine Ackerhummel (Bombus pascuorum). 2026-05-07 15:38:16 Fehraltorf Bombus pascuorum / Ackerhummel, die / Common carder bee. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. First observed on 02 August 2025 in Fehraltorf.
A kind of Bombus rupestris / Felsen-Kuckuckshummel (Bombus rupestris)

Google Lens says The image shows a bumblebee, likely a Bombus rupestris or a similar species, foraging on a flower. 2025-07-26 13:53:12 Fehraltorf Bombus rupestris / Felsen-Kuckuckshummel, die / A kind of Bombus rupestris. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. This was the first observation.
Buff-tailed bumblebee / Dunkle Erdhummel (Bombus terrestris)

Background - Hummel bei Wildertweiher, wahrscheinlich eine Dunkle Erdhummel aka buff-tailed bumblebee. 2024-06-04 09:43:55 Fehraltorf Bombus terrestris / Dunkle Erdhummel, die / Buff-tailed bumblebee; Variant: Large earth bumblebee. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. Common in Switzerland, says Google Lens. This was the first observation.
Gattung Nomada / Wespenbiene (Gattung Nomada)

GL sagt dies ist eine Wespenbiene (Gattung Nomada), eine spezielle Art von Wildbiene. 2026-04-23 08:47:27 Fehraltorf Gattung Nomada / Wespenbiene. Gesehen bei einem Spaziergang richtung Pistolschutzenhaus in Fehraltorf. This was the first observation.
Masked bee (Genus Hylaeus)

GL says this appears to be a member of the genus Hylaeus, commonly known as masked bees or yellow-faced bees. 2026-04-19 15:02:19 Genus Hylaeus / Masked bee; Variant: Yellow-faced bee. This was the first observation.
Slender Mining Bee / Gemeine Furchenbiene (Lasioglossum calceatum)

GL says a kind of cuckoo bee, to me the Slender Mining Bee looks most similar. 2025-08-16 16:39:57 Fehraltorf Lasioglossum calceatum / Gemeine Furchenbiene, die / Slender Mining Bee. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. First observed on 03 August 2025 in Fehraltorf.
Red Mason Bee / Rostrote Mauerbiene auch Rote Mauerbiene (Osmia bicornis)

GL says a Red Mason Bee (Osmia bicornis), a common solitary bee found throughout Switzerland. 2026-04-22 11:58:14 Switzerland Osmia bicornis / Rostrote Mauerbiene auch Rote Mauerbiene, die / Red Mason Bee. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. GoogleLens says it's a common solitary bee found throughout Switzerland. First observed on 17 April 2026 in Fehraltorf.
Mason bee (Osmia cornifrons)

GL says probably a Mason Bee (Osmia cornifrons), which is commonly known as a horned-face bee. 2026-04-19 17:33:19 Osmia cornifrons / Mason bee; Variant: horned-face bee. This was the first observation.
European orchard bee / Gehörnte Mauerbiene (Osmia cornuta)

Probably an Osmia cornuta, the European orchard bee. 2026-03-09 15:02:55 Osmia cornuta / Gehörnte Mauerbiene, die / European orchard bee; Variant: European orchard bee#2. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. bees. [EN]: Wikipedia. This was the first observation.
Black Slip Wasp (Pimpla rufipes)

GL says a Black Slip Wasp (Pimpla rufipes). 2026-05-05 15:37:03 Fehraltorf Pimpla rufipes / Black Slip Wasp. This was the first observation.
Sphecodes albilabris / Familie der (Sphecodes albilabris)

GL sagt eine Libelle aus der Familie der Flussjungfern (Gomphidae), sehr wahrscheinlich um die Gemeine Keiljungfer (Gomphus vulgatissimus). 2026-05-23 15:34:45 Fanel/Chablais de Cudrefin und La Sauge Sphecodes albilabris / Familie der. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. This was the first observation.
Great black wasp (Sphex pensylvanicus)

GL says probably small solitary wasps, I say maybe Sphex pensylvanicus, the great black wasp or great black digger wasp. 2026-04-19 15:02:19 Sphex pensylvanicus / Great black wasp; Variant: Great black digger wasp. Sphex pensylvanicus was the subject of the first article on an insect written by a native-born citizen of the New World, when observations made by John Bartram on S. pensylvanicus were presented to the Royal Society in 1749 by Peter Collinson.. This was the first observation.
Vespula vulgaris / Gemeine Wespe (Vespula vulgaris)

ID Gemeine Wespe (Vespula vulgaris). 2025-08-09 12:16:31 Vespula vulgaris / Gemeine Wespe, die. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. . This was the first observation.
Ichneumon wasp (family Ichneumonidae)

GL says a type of Ichneumon wasp (family Ichneumonidae), a diverse group of parasitic wasps. 2026-04-20 16:12:29 Alpweg family Ichneumonidae / Ichneumon wasp. Ichneumonidae is a diverse group of parasitic wasps. This was the first observation.
Red velvet mite (family Trombidiidae)

Auf dem Tisch in Betlis, GL says a mite, specifically a red velvet mite (family Trombidiidae) or a snout mite (family Bdellidae). 2025-10-21 16:03:43 Betlis family Trombidiidae / Red velvet mite. GL said it could also be a snout mite (family Bdellidae), and emphasized that they're arachnids, not insects. It added Red Velvet Mites (Trombidiidae): These mites are often bright red and have a dense covering of hair-like setae, giving them a velvety appearance. They are predators of small arthropods and their eggs. Snout Mites (Bdellidae): These mites are also predatory and are characterized by their elongated, snout-like mouthparts. They are typically found in soil and leaf litter.. This was the first observation.

Bees in general:

General: The species in the family Bombus are bumblebees, by far the most common. Halictidate and Lasioglossum are both commonly called sweat bees, so that's the second most common description after bumblebees
Honeybees:
General: In German, anything but a honeybee is a 'wild bee', English doesn't seem to use such a term.
Western honey bee / Westliche Honigbiene (Apis mellifera)

I like this view of a European honey bee with its fuzz and thirst. 2025-08-19 15:08:44 Pfäffikersee Apis mellifera / Westliche Honigbiene, die / Western honey bee; Variant: European honey bee. Sources: [DE]: Wikipedia. [EN]: Wikipedia. classic appearance of a honey bee, characterized by its fuzzy, brownish body, segmented abdomen, and visible wings, consistent with the Apis mellifera species. GoogleLens says the Western honey bee (Apis mellifera) is the most common species of honey bee worldwide and is found throughout Europe, including Switzerland, where it plays a vital role in agriculture as a pollinator. . First observed on 05 June 2024 in Fehraltorf.
Wild bees in Canton Zurich, 0 kinds::
General: Alle Bombus species are bumblebees, as I learned while researching our bees.
Wild bees elsewhere in Switzerland, 0 kinds: