Bee-like Robberfly

Description:

These black and yellow insects are about 1-1.5 cm long (.5 to .75 in) and mimic bumblebees.

Habitat:

Many species of robberflies are found in dry, grassy environments, but these I found along a path in Minnesota's boreal forest.

Notes:

These insects are voracious predators of other flying insects. I found many of these bee mimics sitting on leaves of shurbs along the path. From these perches they would ambush insects flying in the opening formed in the forest by the path. These insects probably derive some protection from other predators by looking like a large and dangerous bee, which would be armed with a stinger. Their coloration/appearance may also be less likely to alarm possible prey.