Bat Fly vs Picture-Winged Fly
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Bat Fly | Picture-Winged Fly |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Penicillidia conspicua | Delphinia picta |
| Order | Diptera | Diptera |
| Family | Nycteribiidae | Ulidiidae |
| Size | 2-5 mm | 5-8 mm |
| Habitat | Caves | Underground |
| Diet | Parasites | Herbivores |
| Regions | Europe, Asia, Africa | North America |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Bat Fly
A bizarre wingless fly that lives exclusively as an ectoparasite on bats. It has lost its wings entirely and scurries through bat fur like a spider.
Did You Know?
These flies have evolved to look and move like spiders, having completely lost their wings and flattened their bodies for life in bat fur.
Picture-Winged Fly
A small fly with beautifully patterned wings that it waves in display like tiny semaphore flags. The wing patterns may serve in species recognition and courtship.
Did You Know?
When walking, it continuously waves its patterned wings in a mesmerizing display, resembling a tiny insect conductor leading an orchestra.