Anyone able to tell me what this is?

[Moriarty]

Found these flies on our ivy bush earlier this autumn. Their heads were cocked awkwardly and they were clinging onto the edge of the leaf. They were evidentally paralysed, and they also had this weird growth of bands across their abdomens. I'm assuming this growth is fungus, but I'd be very interested if someone could tell me exactly what this thing was that was putting the flies in this state.

Thanks.

 

[abraxas]

I dunno, but, what a cool thing to happen to flys!

 

[SpaceNut]

Might check with your local animal control and ask them for a reference for bees & insects that they use. Take your picture or specimen of the critter to them and ask. Good luck & welcome to TPF!