Kite-tailed Robber Fly vs Narcissus Bulb Fly

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Kite-tailed Robber Fly Narcissus Bulb Fly
Scientific Name Tolmerus atricapillus Merodon equestris
Order Diptera Diptera
Family Asilidae Syrphidae
Size 10-16 mm 10-15 mm
Habitat Heathland Underground
Diet Predators Nectar Feeders
Regions Europe, Central Asia Europe, North America (introduced), Oceania (introduced)
Conservation Least Concern Least Concern

Kite-tailed Robber Fly

A common grey robber fly with a slightly club-shaped abdomen. It is widespread across Europe, frequently hunting from low perches.

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Did You Know?

It is one of the last robber fly species to remain active into late autumn.

Narcissus Bulb Fly

A bumble bee-mimicking hoverfly that comes in multiple color forms matching different bumblebee species. Its larvae bore into and destroy daffodil and narcissus bulbs.

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Did You Know?

It exists in multiple color forms, each mimicking a different bumblebee species found in the same habitat.