Hornet Robberfly
Asilus crabroniformis
Photo: Wikimedia Commons (CC) via https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hornet_robberfly
Overview
A detailed profile for this species is sourced from the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species as assessments become available.
The Hornet Robberfly faces severe population declines primarily due to habitat loss from agricultural intensification and urban development across its European range. Traditional extensive grazing systems that maintain the species' preferred open, flower-rich grasslands have been largely replaced by intensive farming practices. Climate change poses an additional threat by altering the timing of prey availability and shifting suitable habitat zones northward faster than the species can adapt.
Habitat
The Hornet Robberfly inhabits warm, dry grasslands, heathlands, and woodland edges with abundant flowering plants that attract its dipteran prey. It requires areas with bare ground or short vegetation for hunting perches and open spaces for its aerial predation behavior.
Other threatened species in Asilidae
Threatened in Albania
Frequently asked questions
Why is Hornet Robberfly classified as Vulnerable?
Where does Hornet Robberfly live?
What are the main threats to Hornet Robberfly?
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