Buffalo Fly vs Autumn Horse Fly

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Buffalo Fly Autumn Horse Fly
Scientific Name Haematobia irritans exigua Tabanus autumnalis
Order Diptera Diptera
Family Muscidae Tabanidae
Size 3-4 mm 16-22 mm
Habitat Farmland Heathland
Diet Blood Feeders Blood Feeders
Regions Southeast Asia, northern Australia, Pacific Islands Europe, North Africa, Western Asia
Conservation Least Concern Least Concern

Buffalo Fly

A small blood-feeding fly closely related to the horn fly, found primarily in Southeast Asia and Australia. It is a major pest of cattle and water buffalo, clustering on the animal's back, sides, and belly. Heavy infestations cause skin lesions and reduced milk production.

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Did You Know?

Buffalo flies cause annual economic losses exceeding 100 million dollars to the Australian cattle industry.

Autumn Horse Fly

A large greyish horse fly active in late summer and autumn. It has striking green-banded eyes and a persistent biting habit.

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Did You Know?

It is one of the few horse fly species that remains active well into October.