Conops is the type genus of the family Conopidae and includes a group of medium-sized flies commonly referred to as thick-headed flies. Species of Conops are characterised by a strongly swollen head, large compound eyes, and an elongate abdomen often narrowed at the base, giving many species a pronounced wasp-like appearance. Colour patterns are typically bold, with combinations of black, yellow, orange, or reddish markings that enhance their mimicry of aculeate Hymenoptera.

Adults are frequently observed visiting flowers, where they feed on nectar and are often mistaken for wasps or solitary bees. The larvae are endoparasitoids of bees and occasionally wasps. Females use a specialised ovipositor ⓘ to inject eggs into the host’s abdomen, usually during rapid attacks in flight. The genus is widespread in the Palearctic region and is especially well represented in Europe, where several species are familiar components of flower-rich habitats.