NO. 027
Flies
Hover fly
One pair of wings
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NO. 028
Illustration · not shown at life size
Illustration · not shown at life sizeFlies / Insect
Robber fly
Asilidae · family group
A bristly face and a short, strong beak belong to this hunter. It catches other insects in the air.
Let’s look closerLittle clues
Three things to notice.
Bristly beard on the face.
Short, stout piercing beak.
Catches insects in flight.
Out in the world
Where to look.
Around southeastern Wisconsin
Sunny paths and meadow perches.
When to look
Summer, on sunny perches.
Look closely. Leave your tiny neighbor where you found it.
A closer look
One clue is just the start.
Robber flies come in many shapes. The bristly face and short, strong beak help them catch and eat other insects.
A special find can be hard to spot without being biologically rare. Encounters depend on season and habitat.
Keep exploring
Meet the neighbors.
For curious grownups, too
Read a little further.
- Robber Flies (Asilidae) – Wisconsin HorticultureShare on FacebookShare on X (Twitter)Share via EmailCopy Link
- Robber Fly (Family Asilidae)
Original summaries, with references for deeper reading. Field notes are being checked against the supplied research.
Make a bug slide
Artwork & downloads.
Front artwork is made for a 3-inch clear disc. Revised artwork still needs a physical check. Reverse QR files use the confirmed permanent website.
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