This is the male Scorpion Fly. It was the female I uploaded yesterday. The Scorpion-like bulbous tail is only seen in the male and is in fact it's genitalia - and doesn't sting! They feed mostly on dead insects, which they frequently steal from the webs of spiders. Mating usually takes place at night. It can be a dangerous time for the male, because if he is not careful, the female might decide to kill him! To avoid this he presents her with a gift of a drop of saliva which, it seems, in the world of Scorpion Flies, is the equivalent of a bunch of roses or a box of chocolates.
Many thanks to all who take the time to view, comment or fav my images.
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