Biting Midge vs Yellow Dance Fly
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Biting Midge | Yellow Dance Fly |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Culicoides impunctatus | Empis stercorea |
| Order | Diptera | Diptera |
| Family | Ceratopogonidae | Empididae |
| Size | 1-3 mm | 6-8 mm |
| Habitat | Indoors | Hedgerows |
| Diet | Blood Feeders | Predators |
| Regions | Europe | Europe |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Biting Midge
A tiny, gray, blood-sucking fly notorious in Scotland and Scandinavia as the Highland midge. Swarms can be so dense they form visible clouds and drive people indoors.
Did You Know?
Highland midges are estimated to cost the Scottish tourism industry over 300 million pounds annually and were reportedly a factor in slowing the construction of the West Highland Railway.
Yellow Dance Fly
A medium-sized dance fly with a yellowish body commonly found on spring flowers. Males present prey items as mating gifts. An important pollinator of spring flowers.
Did You Know?
Important early-season pollinators that visit spring flowers while also hunting small insects on them.