Predatory Flies : Robber flies
categories: Natural Enemies Predatory Flies
last review date: 2025-08-23 07:09
Photo by: D.G. James
Biology
Robber flies are large (1/2 to 1 inch), aggressive predators that capture prey while in flight!
They have prominent eyes, long legs and a tapered slender abdomen.
They catch and consume many kinds of insects including flies, wasps, grasshoppers, leafhoppers, beetles and butterflies.
Robber fly larvae live in the soil feeding on small insects.
Attracting and Keeping Natural Enemies
and Pollinators in Your Yard and Garden
- Native plants provide essential resources.
- Native flora also provides natural overwintering sites.
- Natural dispersion from nearby habitats ensures visitation.
- Some kinds of beneficial insects predatory mites are commercially available.
- Avoid regular use of synthetic, broad-spectrum pesticides.
- Infrequent use of certain narrow-spectrum pesticides is more compatible with some beneficials.
- Extensive lawns are also not conducive to attracting beneficial insects.
Management Options
See "Using Integrated Pest Management (IPM) in the Landscape" for successful problem management techniques.
Non-chemical Management
Select non-chemical management options as your first choice!
- Mites, aphids, scale insects, thrips, caterpillars, beetle larvae, flies, wasps, grasshoppers, bees
Chemical Management
IMPORTANT: Visit Home and Garden Fact Sheets for more information on using pesticides.
- None recommended
WSU Extension programs and employment are available to all without discrimination.
Evidence of noncompliance may be reported through your local Extension office.