Robber Fly vs Bat Fly
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Robber Fly | Bat Fly |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Promachus rufipes | Penicillidia conspicua |
| Order | Diptera | Diptera |
| Family | Asilidae | Nycteribiidae |
| Size | 15-30 mm | 2-5 mm |
| Habitat | Meadows | Caves |
| Diet | Predators | Parasites |
| Regions | North America, Europe | Europe, Asia, Africa |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Robber Fly
Aggressive aerial predators that catch other insects in flight. Inject prey with neurotoxic saliva that paralyzes and liquefies internal organs for consumption.
Did You Know?
Robber flies are such efficient aerial predators that they have been recorded catching dragonflies, wasps, and even other robber flies in mid-air.
Bat Fly
A bizarre wingless fly that lives exclusively as an ectoparasite on bats. It has lost its wings entirely and scurries through bat fur like a spider.
Did You Know?
These flies have evolved to look and move like spiders, having completely lost their wings and flattened their bodies for life in bat fur.