At first glance, these extremely capable (and seemingly always hungry) predators look like a medium sized bumblebee. Their “bearded” face is one way to recognize these insects as robber flies. Adults often sit on a perch, waiting for a flying insect to pass by. As fast and agile hunters, robbers easily dash out to intercept their next meal in mid-flight. Bon appétit!

Photo by: Rose Marchak on 6/19/21 in Missoula, MT