Robber Flies have been everywhere this year. I was sitting on a rock watching Robber Flies catch gnats when this fly shot out and grabbed a passing Treehopper. The attack was super fast and at the same time effortless. The Robber Fly flew out and caught that Treehopper as easily as you or I would reach and take a dinner roll from a basket. The fly will soon have its meal sucked dry.
Reminds me of The Man with No Eyes character in Cool Hand Luke. It’s a wonder that such a tiny brain can process all the information gathered by these faceted eyes.
There is just a shallow curvature to the front surface of the eye. I would imagine this is necessary in order to concentrate forward facets to achieve depth perception for effective hunting. There are still plenty of facets facing up, back and to the sides, so this insect doesn’t miss much in any direction.
Robber Flies have been everywhere this year. I was sitting on a rock watching Robber Flies catch gnats when this fly shot out and grabbed a passing Treehopper. The attack was super fast and at the same time effortless. The Robber Fly flew out and caught that Treehopper as easily as you or I would reach and take a dinner roll from a basket. The fly will soon have its meal sucked dry.
Reminds me of The Man with No Eyes character in Cool Hand Luke. It’s a wonder that such a tiny brain can process all the information gathered by these faceted eyes.
There is just a shallow curvature to the front surface of the eye. I would imagine this is necessary in order to concentrate forward facets to achieve depth perception for effective hunting. There are still plenty of facets facing up, back and to the sides, so this insect doesn’t miss much in any direction. 
Hi, I came over from Red and the Peanut. Your photos are great and fascinating. The Robber Fly is very interesting.
ReplyDeleteCindy - Thanks for the compliment and the visit.
ReplyDeleteWowsers.......stunning photos!!! Interesting and fun narration as well...
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