Horse flies are true flies in the insect order Diptera. These fast-flying insects feed on plant nectar and carry various animal diseases. Horse flies are commonly found in barns, stables, and other confined spaces. They are often accompanied by a smelly odor and can be a nuisance in the home.
Horse flies are true flies in the insect order Diptera
Horse flies are true flies, and they are part of the insect order Diptera. They undergo a complete metamorphosis that includes an egg, larva, pupa, and adult stages. During their larval stage, horse flies are legless or have small stumps or false legs that allow them to wiggle. In addition, these insects sometimes give birth to fully developed larvae, a process known as ovivipary.
The larvae of horse flies and deer flies are predatory. They live in streams and freshwater marshes and feed on soft-bodied animals. They can also be found in decomposing wood and moist forest soils.
They are fast fliers
The horse fly is one of the fastest flying insects. According to some measurements, the horse fly can reach speeds of up to 90 mph. Nevertheless, the insect’s flight speed is still poorly understood. Although some insects can fly at up to ten times the speed of a human, others are known to reach speeds of hundreds of kilometers per hour.
Horse flies are black or gray in color with shining green eyes. They have short antennae. Their mouthparts are shaped like scissor-like blades that slash into skin and blood vessels to feed. While they prefer the blood of animals, they can also feed on humans. Males have well-developed mouthparts but weakly developed eyes.
They feed on nectar
The Horse fly is a small, black-and-gray insect that feeds on nectar and plant exudates. This species is not to be confused with houseflies. While they have short antennae and a long, flexible body, the female horsefly’s mouthparts are blade-like and allow it to slash the skin and tissues to draw blood. The mouthparts also have a sponge-like part for sucking up blood. These insects are primarily found in semi-aquatic areas.
Horse flies can be problematic in the summer when they breed. This is when humans wear t-shirts and shorts, and they are most likely to be bitten.
They are carriers of various animal diseases
Horse fly carriers are not only pests; they can also transmit animal diseases. Virus particles carried by flies can cause rhinopneumonitis, strangles, and equine influenza. Horse flies are also known to carry vesicular stomatitis, a viral disease that causes painful sores in the mouth of horses. Their presence can further increase the spread of disease because flies tend to feed on sores.
Horse flies are part of the family of hematophagous insects. Their life cycle lasts for 2 to 3 weeks. Their bites can irritate the skin and cause wounds that bleed and can become infected. Horse flies also fly at high speeds, reaching a speed of 5 metres per second.
They can bite through clothing
The horse fly can bite through clothing and can cause an allergic reaction in some people. The bite is usually painful, and it may even cause an infection if it becomes infected. The bite will usually heal itself on its own within a few days. In severe cases, however, the bite may lead to a sore, a raised rash, or dizziness.
Horse flies are often attracted to the color blue, so it is important to wear clothing that is blue or white. Moreover, horse-flies are drawn to lighter colors, so you should wear sun-sleeves. You should also apply insect repellent, as horse-flies are drawn to lighter-colored fabrics.