File:Dioctria atricapilla in copula2.ogvPlay media
D. atricapilla in copula
The violet black-legged robber fly, Dioctria atricapilla, is a species of robber fly in the subfamily Dasypogoninae. This 9- to 12-millimeter long insect has a wingspan of roughly 7 to 9 mm and short, three-segmented antennae. It's a predatory insect, feeding mainly on smaller flies and predatory hymenopterans. It primarily thrives in grassland, and is seen from May to July.

Habitat and behavior

Like all robber flies, the violet black-legged robber fly feed by perching on lower stems of grasses and attack prey as it flies by. The larvae usually grow up in dung piles or decaying organic matter, but they can also be in regular soil.

Courting behavior involves the male leading the courtship dance in front of the female. If she isn't impressed, she'll rapidly move her wings or fly away; otherwise the male will begin copulating.

Natural status

There are 24 locations in the United Kingdom where it's a protected species, mostly in England. It can be found throughout European and Asian grasslands.


source - Wikipedia