Mallophora leschenaultii

Distinguished from other bumble bee-mimicking robber flies by the thin terminal segment of the antennae. The similar genus Laphria, which also contains effective bumble bee mimics, has thick antennae. Mallophora species are also described as hairier than Laphria. The combination of large size, black coloration with dense hair, and antennal structure allows separation from other genera.

A large, robust robber fly with dense hair covering much of the body, giving it a bumble bee-like appearance. The body is predominantly black. The antennae have a thin terminal segment, distinguishing it from the similar genus Laphria which has thick antennae. The compound eyes are large and prominent. Size is substantial relative to other robber flies, though exact measurements are not well documented in available sources.

Associated with open habitats including grasslands, prairies, and glades. In the United States, it occurs in regions with suitable open terrain for hunting flying insect prey.

Documented from Texas and Mexico regularly; reported north to Colorado and south to Argentina. GBIF records indicate presence in multiple Brazilian states including Bahia, Espírito Santo, Minas Gerais, Mato Grosso do Sul, Mato Grosso, Pará, Rio de Janeiro, and Rio Grande do Sul.

Predatory, feeding on bees and other insects. The common names 'bee-eater' and 'bee killer' reflect its documented predation on bees.

An active aerial predator that captures prey in flight. Like other robber flies, it likely perches on vegetation or other elevated surfaces to scan for passing prey. Individuals have been observed to be wary and difficult to approach closely.

Apex aerial predator in its habitat, controlling populations of bees and other flying insects. As a large robber fly, it occupies a significant position in food webs of open grassland and glade ecosystems.

May impact local bee populations, including honey bees, due to its predatory habits. Its bumble bee mimicry can lead to misidentification by observers. The species is of interest to entomologists and insect photographers due to its size and mimicry.

• LaphriaAlso contains effective bumble bee mimics; distinguished by thick antennae (vs. thin terminal segment in Mallophora) and generally less hairy body
• PromachusLarge robber flies but lack the dense hair and bumble bee mimicry of Mallophora
• Microstylum morosumNorth America's largest robber fly but occurs in different geographic region (Great Plains) and lacks bumble bee mimicry, having a streamlined, nearly hairless body

• BugGuide
• Wikipedia
• GBIF taxonomy match
• iNaturalist taxon
• North America’s largest robber fly | Beetles In The Bush