Bristly Tachinid vs Golden-backed Snipe Fly

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Bristly Tachinid Golden-backed Snipe Fly
Scientific Name Epalpus signifer Chrysopilus thoracicus
Order Diptera Diptera
Family Tachinidae Rhagionidae
Size 6-10 mm 8-12 mm
Habitat Farmland Woodlands
Diet Parasites Herbivores
Regions North America Eastern North America
Conservation Least Concern Least Concern

Bristly Tachinid

A bristly gray parasitic fly found across North America. It parasitizes a wide range of caterpillars including armyworms and cutworms.

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Did You Know?

Females scatter tiny eggs on foliage, which are then accidentally swallowed by feeding caterpillars.

Golden-backed Snipe Fly

A striking fly with golden thoracic hairs and dark wings that rests head-down on foliage. Larvae are predators in soil and leaf litter.

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Did You Know?

It characteristically rests on vegetation with its head pointed downward, ready to pounce on passing prey.