This robber fly was lying in wait on a low branch in my yard. Luckily I had my camera and tripod when I spotted it. You can click on the picture to see a larger version of the image.
Reconnecting with nature through hiking, camping, and paddling
Looks a lot like the Red-legged Cannibalfly, but seems to have a little more gray on the thorax.
I just photographed a couple of these this weekend, but I had no idea what their species was. What a timely post! And what a strange looking insect.