Bee Killer Robber Fly vs Grape Flea Beetle
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Bee Killer Robber Fly | Grape Flea Beetle |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Mallophora bomboides | Altica chalybea |
| Order | Diptera | Coleoptera |
| Family | Asilidae | Chrysomelidae |
| Size | 20-28 mm | 4-5 mm |
| Habitat | Farmland | Orchards |
| Diet | Herbivores | Herbivores |
| Regions | Eastern United States from New England to Florida | Eastern North America |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Bee Killer Robber Fly
A large fuzzy robber fly that closely resembles a bumble bee in both appearance and buzzing flight. It perches on vegetation and launches aerial attacks on passing insects.
Did You Know?
Its bumble bee mimicry is so convincing that it can sit among real bees at flowers without being recognized as a predator.
Grape Flea Beetle
A small, metallic dark blue beetle with enlarged jumping legs that feeds on grape buds and young foliage. It can cause significant economic damage in vineyards by destroying developing buds.
Did You Know?
Adults emerge in early spring to feed on swelling grape buds, and a single beetle can destroy multiple buds before leaves fully develop.