---

DESCRIPTION

---

Robber Flies are easily recognized. They have a bearded face over a well-developed and highly sclerotized proboscis. At the top of the head, between their eyes is a longitudinal excavation. 3 ocelli are present and the third antennal segment is typically elongate, with a short terminal style. The body is often densely haired, but may be nearly bare. The thorax is characteristically large and humpbacked in lateral view. Abdomens are somewhat slender and tapered posteriorly (the abdomen may actually be pointy in females). Though, in some bee mimicking forms they may be more robust. Legs are relatively long and large and are sometimes covered with long bristly hairs. Robber flies are common insects, 5-30 mm.

---