What is a "bee fly"?

A bee fly is an insect that mimics the appearance of a bee with its robust body and fuzzy texture. Despite its deceptive appearance, it is actually a type of fly. Bee flies have a long proboscis, or mouthpart, which they use to feed on nectar from flowers. They are important pollinators, visiting various flowering plants and transferring pollen from one flower to another. Unlike bees, bee flies do not have a stinger and are harmless to humans. These fascinating insects play a role in ecosystem dynamics by contributing to pollination and serving as a food source for other organisms.