Photograph
Robber Fly (Family Asilidae)
A macro portrait of a robber fly, revealing its enormous compound eyes, powerful piercing proboscis, and the distinctive facial "beard" of stiff bristles. Although it is a true fly, this member of the Asilidae family is an active predator that captures other insects in mid-air.
Beyond the frame
Robber flies are among the most skilled aerial hunters in the insect world. They launch from a perch with remarkable speed, intercept prey in flight, and immobilize it using their piercing proboscis, through which they inject digestive enzymes. Their large compound eyes provide an almost uninterrupted field of view, allowing them to detect movement from impressive distances.
Collection
Life Up Close