Giant prairie robber fly

Grasslands and Prairies, Forests and Woodlands, Deserts and Arid Regions

Grasslands and Prairies, Forests and Woodlands, Deserts and Arid Regions, Savannas

Given that adult giant prairie robber fly are aggressive predators, they do not respond to bait or traps in the same way other insects might. The focus would be on finding them in the act of predation.

The eggs of giant prairie robber fly are laid in the soil or on plants near the ground, where larvae develop, predating upon small insects or organic matter. Upon hatching, these larvae can typically be found beneath the soil surface or within leaf litter. The larvae's development continues through various instars, usually in moist, shaded environments. The pupal stage of giant prairie robber fly occurs in a puparium formed within the last larval skin, often in the soil or under debris. To locate these stages, one should search in grassy or brushy areas, especially in dry, open habitats with sandy soil. Adults are commonly found perched in sunny locations awaiting prey, like on twigs, rocks, or bare ground.

The suitable time to find adult giant prairie robber fly would be on warm, sunny days when their prey insects are active as this is when giant prairie robber fly are likely to be hunting. Likewise, their larvae can be sought out during daylight hours, but typically require digging into the soil or underneath decaying matter where they reside.

Dry and warm weather conditions are most suitable for locating giant prairie robber fly as they are more active and easier to spot during such conditions. Excessive wind or rain can hinder their ability to fly and hunt, thereby making them less visible.