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Common awl robberfly

Common awl robberfly

Neoitamus cyanurus

A species of Neoitamus

The common awl robberfly (Neoitamus cyanurus) is a stark black and orange feature commonly seen around oak trees. It hangs about waiting for insects that are typically much larger than it, as it is a very hungry insect with something to prove. It isn't picky, eating everything from butterflies to beetles.

General Info About Common awl robberfly
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Attributes of Common awl robberfly
Colors
Black
Yellow
Habitat
spruce forest edge; hedge row; wooded garden and park
Adult Food Sources
Bees, wasps, flies, butterflies, moths
Larva Food Source
Insect larvae, other arthropods
Biting/stinging
Not reported
Allergy-causing
Not reported
Defensive attack
Not reported
Venomous
Not reported
Non-poisonous
The Common awl robberfly is non-toxic and generally doesn't pose a risk to human health. No need for excessive worry.
Borer
Not reported
Pollinator
Not reported
Pest-Eating Predatory
Not reported
Phytophagous
Not reported
Predatory
The Common awl robberfly typically preys on other arthropods and does not directly affect plants.
Biting animal or pet
Yes
Mouthparts Type
Piercing-sucking mouthparts
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Species Status of Common awl robberfly
It is an East Palearctic ecozone species, with a limited distribution in Europe, but it is also present in the Near East and in the Oriental ecozone.
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Distribution Area of Common awl robberfly
Europe, Near East, Oriental realm
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Life Cycle of Common awl robberfly
Egg The egg stage is the first phase in the life cycle of common awl robberfly. Eggs are typically laid in a protected environment and are small, oval-shaped, and vary in color. They are immobile and serve as the developmental stage before the larva emerges.
Larva In the larval stage, common awl robberfly takes the form of maggots. These legless larvae exhibit a worm-like appearance, lacking true legs and eyes. They consume organic material voraciously, facilitating rapid growth and necessitating several molts.
Pupal As common awl robberfly enters the pupal stage, it becomes inactive and encloses itself within a puparium. This stage is characterized by significant transformation, as internal organs and external structures like wings develop and the larval body is reorganized.
Adult Emerging from the pupa, the adult common awl robberfly's development is marked by the presence of wings and functional reproductive organs. The body is fully formed and hardened, and the adult is mobile, focusing on reproduction.
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Adult Size of Common awl robberfly
1.2 - 1.7 cm
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Predators of Common awl robberfly Larvae
Ants, beetles, birds
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Predators of Adult Common awl robberfly
Birds, praying mantises, spiders
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Interesting Facts About Common awl robberfly
Common awl robberfly possesses remarkable aerial agility that allows it to catch prey mid-flight with unparalleled precision.
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Scientific Classification of Common awl robberfly
Class
Bugs
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Order
Flies
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Tips for Finding Common awl robberfly
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Youth Habitat of Common awl robberfly
Forests and Woodlands, Grasslands and Prairies, Urban and Suburban Areas
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Adult Habitat of Common awl robberfly
Forests and Woodlands, Grasslands and Prairies, Urban and Suburban Areas, Agricultural and Cultivated Areas
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How Can You Attract Common awl robberfly
Since common awl robberfly is a predatory insect, artificial lures or bait are not typically effective. However, attracting its prey may indirectly serve to attract common awl robberfly.
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Habitat Preferences of Common awl robberfly Through Different Life Stages
Eggs of common awl robberfly are typically laid in soil or in plant stems near the ground. Larvae reside underground or in decaying wood, where they prey on other small invertebrates. Pupation also occurs in the soil, where larvae develop into pupae before emerging as adults. Adult common awl robberfly hunt in open, sunny areas, often perching on leaves or bare soil waiting to ambush prey. To locate these stages, one might check soil layers for eggs or larvae, decaying logs for larvae, and open fields or forest edges for adults. Observing adults may require patience as they zip swiftly to capture prey or dart to new perches.
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When is the Best Time to Observe Common awl robberfly
Adult common awl robberfly are most active during the warmer months and during the daylight hours, usually when the sun is strongest. Larval stages may be sought after year-round, depending on the regional climate.
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What is the Best Weather to Observe Common awl robberfly
Warm, sunny, and dry conditions are best when searching for adult common awl robberfly, as these conditions are conducive to the activity of flying insects.
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How and Where Can You Find Common awl robberfly at Different Life Stages
Egg Common awl robberfly eggs are typically laid on or near the larvae’s food source. Find them by inspecting the soil or plant surfaces in areas where adult common awl robberfly have been seen.
Larva Common awl robberfly larvae are predatory and can be found in soil, leaf litter, or under the bark of trees. Locate them by carefully searching these areas and looking for signs of predation.
Pupal Common awl robberfly pupae are often concealed in the soil or within crevices. Uncover them by gently sifting through soil or exploring natural cracks and crevices in wood or stone.
Adult The adult common awl robberfly can be sighted perching in sunny spots, generally at a higher vantage point. Spot them by scanning the edges of open fields, paths, or clearings, and look for their characteristic sudden, swift flights as they chase prey.
Are Common awl robberfly harmful?
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Beneficial Effects of Common awl robberfly
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Explore how insects help as pollinators, pest predators, and biocontrol agents. From seed dispersal to decomposition, they play vital roles in our ecosystem.
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Predators of Pests
Predators of Pests
Stage
Adults
Purpose
Feed Itself
Diets
Flies, Beetles, Wasps, Grasshoppers, Insects
Common awl robberfly is an impressive aerial hunter that captures its prey mid-flight using powerful legs. It pierces the prey with its sharp proboscis to inject saliva containing neurotoxic and proteolytic enzymes, which immobilize the prey and digest its insides. This stealthy predator's feast aids in controlling pest populations.
Common Questions People Also Ask
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