Dark-stigma Snakefly vs Mountain Dance Fly
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Dark-stigma Snakefly | Mountain Dance Fly |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Phaeostigma notata | Empis pennipes |
| Order | Raphidioptera | Diptera |
| Family | Raphidiidae | Empididae |
| Size | 12-15 mm body | 5-8 mm body length |
| Habitat | Woodlands | Rivers & Streams |
| Diet | Predators | Predators |
| Regions | Europe | Europe, Alps, Scandinavia |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Dark-stigma Snakefly
A primitive predatory insect with an elongated prothorax giving it a snake-like neck. Found on tree trunks in woodland. Both adults and larvae prey on small insects.
Did You Know?
Snakeflies are living fossils with a body plan virtually unchanged for over 140 million years.
Mountain Dance Fly
A predatory fly with feathery leg fringes used in aerial mating displays. Males offer prey gifts wrapped in silk to females during courtship.
Did You Know?
Males with the most elaborate feathered legs are preferred by females during mating swarms.