Ant Decapitating Fly

Found in environments where their host organisms (ants, bees, or wasps) reside, ranging from forests to gardens.

Larvae are internal parasites of insects; adults primarily consume nectar or decaying organic matter.

The female fly lays eggs in the thorax of a host. The larva migrates to the head, eventually causing the host's head to fall off as the larva matures and pupates within the decapitated head capsule.

They pose no direct risk to humans. Ecologically, they act as biological control agents for certain ant populations, including invasive species like fire ants.