Hi, I’m a beginner, but have had an interest in entomology for 50 odd years - during which time I have seen a crane fly ‘taken’ by another fly. I have attached photos. Any idea what the predator is, please?
The location was long grass on a field edge. Limestone.
Many thanks,
Max Elvidge
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.... I have never seen a…
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Max - can you try attaching…
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Max - can you try attaching the photos again, please?
Your predator is a member of…
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Your predator is a member of the Asilidae, known as robber flies. They're quite a tricky family, and I'm no expert, so I'm afraid I can't go any further.
Thanks, Max. It's Dioctria…
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Thanks, Max. It's Dioctria rufipes - feeds almost entirely on Hymenoptera and Diptera.
Thankyou so much, Tony and…
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Thankyou so much, Tony and Howard.
I think what fooled me is that I hadn't seen an Asilid with resting wings in the 'out' position before (as opposed to folded over its back).
- and I have Alan and Martin's book, and now can now see it all too clearly!
I will add it to iRecord.
Wow, John, that was…
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Wow, John, that was unexpected and most kind!
Thankyou all very much indeed.
.... I have never seen a crane fly ‘taken’ by another fly.... - sorry