What type of insects do robber flies typically prey upon?

Robber flies are known for their predatory behavior specifically targeting smaller flying insects. They are adept hunters that employ a strategy of agility and speed, allowing them to catch prey mid-flight. Their primary targets include various types of smaller insects, such as flies, bees, and wasps, rather than larger resting insects or crops. This focus on agile, flying prey is a hallmark of their predatory lifestyle, making them effective in controlling insect populations. The notion that they prey solely on larger resting insects overlooks their dynamic hunting techniques and preferences in pursuit of more manageable, smaller prey. Their hunting style is one of the reasons they are revered in many ecosystems for their role in maintaining balance among insect populations.