Common Awl Robberfly
Neoitamus cyanurus
This record describes Neoitamus cyanurus (species). Recorded family: Asilidae. Recorded order: Diptera.
Identification and Appearance
12 to17mm. The Awl Robberflies are named for the distinctive long ovipositor of the female. The last segments of the abdomen are glossy black - part of the genitalia. Femora are black and the tibiae are bright orange with black tips. Males are easier to identify due to the shape of the hypopygium but females are difficult. Other Neoitamus species, particularly N. socius . Woodland, especially along the rides of ancient woods. May to October, peaking in June and July. Widespread but further sheltered locations in the north.
Wikipedia reference for Neoitamus cyanurus: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Neoitamus_cyanurus.
Classification
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Woodland, especially along the rides of ancient woods.
Seasonal Activity
May to October, peaking in June and July.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Widespread but further sheltered locations in the north.
About Flies: the wider group
Order-level background for Diptera, the group containing Neoitamus cyanurus. Species-specific details appear above.
Group overview
Diptera includes over 150,000 described species of flies, mosquitoes, and midges. Mosquitoes are the deadliest animal on Earth (CDC). Malaria alone causes ~249 million cases and over 608,000 deaths annually, mostly children under 5 (WHO). Vector-borne diseases account for over 17% of all infectious diseases, causing 700,000+ deaths per year.
Ecological role of the group
Despite their disease impact, flies are critical decomposers and pollinators. Hoverflies alone pollinate hundreds of crop and wildflower species. Flies are also the primary food source for many birds, bats, and fish. Forensic entomology relies heavily on fly species for crime scene analysis.
Economic and practical significance of the group
In the U.S., vector-borne disease cases tripled between 2004-2016, with over 640,000 cases reported in that period (CDC). Tickborne diseases doubled from 22,000 to 48,000 annual reports. Globally, mosquito-borne diseases cost billions in healthcare and lost productivity.
Recorded sources for this group: WHO, CDC, PNAS. Imported estimates may describe particular regions or reporting periods.
Photos of Common Awl Robberfly (3)
Frequently Asked Questions About Common Awl Robberfly
What is Common Awl Robberfly?
Common Awl Robberfly (Neoitamus cyanurus) is a species in the family Asilidae, within the order Diptera.
Where is Common Awl Robberfly found?
Habitat: Woodland, especially along the rides of ancient woods.
When is Common Awl Robberfly active?
Common Awl Robberfly: seasonal activity - May to October, peaking in June and July..