June 2011 Robber Flies for ID check please

[Geoff F]

Still trying to slowly work through my unidentified photos.

Asilidae is a family which I am just attempting to learn in greater detail.

I see very few Dioctria in the WAB Gallery so before uploading these photos I would appreciate a second opinion.

All June apart from one in mid May. South Devon.

Dioctria atricapilla



Dioctria linearis



Dioctria rufipes



Dioctria rufipes I think. Not a totally perfect angle but I don't think it is D. baumhaueri. On 19/05/11



I think I am correct with these but a more experienced opinion would be helpful, particularly with the last one.

[Anomalous]

I think you are right on all of them, Geoff.

The last one is definitely rufipes, with the combination of dark coxae, pale front legs and mid and dark rear legs. The antennal base protrudes well, too.

Roll on the spring for more of the same!

Ian

[Geoff F]

Thanks for that, Ian.

I had thought the antennal base was sufficiently large but didn't have anything to directly compare it against.

I have British Soldierflies & Allies (Stubbs & Drake) which I purchased secondhand from another WAB member.

Intend to spend a bit more time with Asilidae next summer.

Currently struggling with a Snipe Fly (Rhagio sp) which I'm not certain about - so will probably add that to my next post.

[Dillybythesea]

Good to hear there are more pics in the pipeline. Just looking through them, and quietly marvelling, is a fine pastime.

[Geoff F]

Due to the present spell of cold weather, I'm gradually trying to work through my unidentified photos, although I suspect many will remain in a state of limbo.

Then looking to see if there are any areas of the Gallery which are short of examples and where I have clearly identified photos.

[Dillybythesea]

Sounds a great plan, from every perspective. And very absorbing - in the absence of anything stirring outdoors!