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Bee-Like Robber Fly eats Japanese Beetle

Posted by July 9th, 2008 at 12:00 am

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Bee or a Fly?
Bugman,
I took this picture on 7/3/08 in the mountains near Helen, GA. It startled me as it flew by because I have never seen anything like this. I have seen the large Cicada Killer flying with a Cicada in its grips and that is an impressive site to see. But, I have not seen this insect before. It apparently has a Japanese Beetle in its grip. Is this a bee or a fly?
Patrick Crone

laphria eats beetle Bee Like Robber Fly eats Japanese Beetle

Hi Patrick,
This is a Bee-Like Robber Fly in the genus Laphria, but we are not certain of the species. BugGuide depicts several possibilities, but nothing looks exact and we feel a true expert is needed to be conclusive. People currently being plagued by the invasive Japanese Beetle will be happy to see your photo.

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