Common Bat Fly vs Conenose Bug

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Common Bat Fly Conenose Bug
Scientific Name Basilia nana Triatoma protracta
Order Diptera Hemiptera
Family Nycteribiidae Reduviidae
Size 2-3 mm 17-22 mm
Habitat Caves Deserts & Drylands
Diet Blood Feeders Blood Feeders
Regions Europe Western United States, Northern Mexico
Conservation Least Concern Least Concern

Common Bat Fly

A tiny, completely wingless spider-like fly that parasitizes bats. Its body is so highly modified for ectoparasitism that it bears almost no resemblance to a typical fly.

💡

Did You Know?

It has evolved to be so specialized that its head folds back over the thorax, and it walks like a spider through bat fur.

Conenose Bug

A kissing bug native to the western United States that commonly enters homes to feed on sleeping residents. Its bite can cause severe allergic reactions in sensitized individuals.

💡

Did You Know?

Repeated bites can lead to anaphylactic shock in sensitized individuals, requiring emergency treatment.