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Photo#89705
Robber Fly - Laphria affinis

Robber Fly - Laphria affinis
Auburn, Lee County, Alabama, USA
December 6, 2006
I conclude that this fly is of Laphria genus. I do remember, however, that Eric Eaton pointed out that many very hairy insects tend to quite literally "go bald," and fade in color, as they age, getting into battles with predators, rival males, etc. So, it may be very difficult to get this particular specimen beyond genus. I was suprised to see this specimen this late in the season. We have had a very hard freeze.

Moved

Moved
Moved from Flies.

Laphria
If this was truly taken in December then it is hard to believe any other Laphria is in the air in Alabama except affinus. The thoracic hair looks a bit worn and I cannot fully see the abdomen (which looks very blackish) but still probably affinus.

You are definitely correct on
You are definitely correct on the genus, but without being able to see the scutellum up close or the abdomen anything more than Laphria sp. would be a guess.

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