[1] This species is present in most of Europe, in eastern Palearctic realm, in the Near East and in North Africa.

They have three yellow bands on an otherwise black abdomen and thus closely resemble wasps in a form of mimicry.

The head has feather-like antennae and the wings have darkened patches in the middle and on the tip.

Volucella inanis can be encountered from early July to early September, feeding on flowers of species such as yarrow (Achillea millefolium), dill (Anethum graveolens), heather (Erica species), thistles (genera Carduus, Cirsium, and Onopordum) and Buddleja davidii.

The female lays eggs in the nests of social wasps and hornets (Vespa crabro, Vespula germanica, etc.).