Hanging Thief Robber Fly vs Parabacillus Walking Stick

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Hanging Thief Robber Fly Parabacillus Walking Stick
Scientific Name Diogmites platypterus Parabacillus hesperus
Order Diptera Phasmatodea
Family Asilidae Diapheromeridae
Size 15-22 mm 4-6 cm
Habitat Farmland Heathland
Diet Herbivores Herbivores
Regions North America United States (California)
Conservation Least Concern Least Concern

Hanging Thief Robber Fly

A slender, elongate robber fly that hangs from vegetation by its front legs while feeding. It has long dangling legs and a distinctive hunting posture unlike most other asilids.

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Did You Know?

It earns its name by dangling from a single leg while consuming prey, freeing the other legs for handling food.

Parabacillus Walking Stick

A western North American walkingstick found in California's chaparral regions. It is a small species well camouflaged among dry stems.

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Did You Know?

It is active primarily at night and spends the day motionless, pressed flat against twigs.