Subject: Insect
Geographic location of the bug: Los Angeles backyard
Date: 09/10/2017
Time: 11:36 AM EDT
Hi! My grandson found this black bug–it’s about 1 1/2 ” long with a torpedo-shaped body with a narrow pointed end. The bug often elevated its rear end. He first found it on it’s back and saw it arch it’s back and move it’s legs over its body to flip onto it’s stomach. Not sure how many wings it has.
How you want your letter signed: Brody
Dear Brody,
We believe this large predator is a Giant Robber Fly in the genus Promachus, probably Promachus albifacies based on this BugGuide image. It also resembles this unidentified species on the Natural History of Orange County site.
Thank you so much for your response! My grandson (11) is thrilled to know the insect name and be on your terrific site.