Common Quaker vs Tundra Robber Fly

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Common Quaker Tundra Robber Fly
Scientific Name Orthosia cerasi Rhadiurgus variabilis
Order Lepidoptera Diptera
Family Noctuidae Asilidae
Size 32-38 mm wingspan 10-15 mm
Habitat Woodlands Beaches & Coastal
Diet Herbivores Herbivores
Regions Europe Scandinavia, Finland, Scotland, northern Russia
Conservation Least Concern Least Concern

Common Quaker

A drab but very common spring moth attracted to sallow blossom. Variable brown coloring. Named 'quaker' for its plain, modest appearance. Larvae feed on many deciduous trees.

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Did You Know?

Named 'Quaker' because its plain brown appearance was compared to the modest dress of the Quaker community.

Tundra Robber Fly

A medium-sized robber fly with a dark body and distinctive bristly face. It is an aerial predator that ambushes other flying insects from perches on rocks and low vegetation. Adults have powerful grasping legs.

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Did You Know?

This robber fly catches prey in midair and injects digestive enzymes to liquefy the insect's insides before drinking them.