Fauna
Insect

Plain-tailed Hanging Thief

Diogmites neoternatus

Also known as Hanging Thief Robber Fly, Robber Fly

Plain-tailed hanging thieves are adept aerial hunters known for ambushing flying insects from elevated perches. After capturing prey with their spiny legs, they suspend themselves by a single front leg from a leaf or twig to consume their meal in mid-air. Their long, slender body and prominent compound eyes allow for precise flight tracking and rapid, decisive strikes.

PredatoryDiurnalInsect Hunter
Plain-tailed Hanging Thief reference1 / 7
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Not EvaluatedConservation statusIUCN Red List categoriesLCNTVUENCREWEXNot Evaluated — not placed on the risk ladderRed List categories, explained →
Key facts
Diet & preyHoney Bees, Paper Wasps, Flies
Predators
  • Songbirds
  • Spiders
  • Praying Mantises
ThreatsHabitat degradation and indiscriminate pesticide application
HabitatsGrasslands, old fields, meadows, and forest edges
Life span1 year
Classification
  1. OrderDiptera
  2. FamilyAsilidae
  3. GenusDiogmites
  4. SpeciesDiogmites neoternatus
Range & activity
Range data is not available yet.
Safe observation
Interaction riskLow
  1. Low
  2. Moderate
  3. High
  4. Very high
Why interaction risk is low
Can deliver a sharp, painful bite with its mouthparts if pinched or handled; observe from a short distance.
Why it is dangerous
Uses a needle-like proboscis to inject paralyzing enzymes into prey, which causes a sharp, burning jab if pressed against skin.
How to recognize a risky encounter
Recognized by its narrow body, long legs, clear wings, and habit of dangling upside down from foliage by one or two forelegs.
What to do
Enjoy watching its hunting behavior from a few feet away without attempting to grab or sweep-net it by hand.
Responsible observation
  • Perch Watching: Look for them clinging to tall grass blades or outer leaves along sunny field margins.
  • Approach Slowly: Move cautiously when photographing to avoid triggering their quick escape flight.
  • Handling Caution: Never capture by hand, as their sharp proboscis can deliver a defensive jab.
Related species
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