Chicken Body Louse vs Glacier Black Fly
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Chicken Body Louse | Glacier Black Fly |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Menacanthus stramineus | Prosimulium alpestre |
| Order | Phthiraptera | Diptera |
| Family | Menoponidae | Simuliidae |
| Size | 3-3.5 mm | 2-4 mm body length |
| Habitat | Farmland | Mountains |
| Diet | Blood Feeders | Blood Feeders |
| Regions | Europe, Asia, Africa, North America, South America, Oceania | Alps, Northern Europe |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Chicken Body Louse
The most damaging louse of domestic poultry, feeding on feathers, skin, and blood. Heavy infestations cause feather loss, reduced egg production, and anemia.
Did You Know?
This louse is unusual among bird lice because it actively feeds on blood by gnawing through pin feathers, not just on feather material.
Glacier Black Fly
A small black fly whose larvae develop in fast-flowing alpine streams. Adults are among the earliest insects active after snowmelt.
Did You Know?
Larvae anchor themselves to rocks in torrential currents using silk pads and tiny hooks.