A Golden-Backed Snip Fly prods along a wet leaf at Millington WMA.

The Golden-Backed Snipe Fly (Chrysopilus thoracicus) is a common species across forests in Maryland.

The particular shot above was taken at Millington Wildlife Management Area in between periods of light rain. This soldier fly gives the appearance of a bee from a distance – probably a defense mechanism – but has some really striking features when you get close. Aside from the bright, yellow mane on its back, rings of white hair surround the abdomen giving an almost silver appearance.

It was very small in size, probably less than two inches. From descriptions I read online, males will bite humans, so be wary. This one seemed uninterested in me.