Eastern Net-Winged Midge vs Sweat Fly

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Eastern Net-Winged Midge Sweat Fly
Scientific Name Blepharicera tenuipes Hydrotaea irritans
Order Diptera Diptera
Family Blephariceridae Muscidae
Size 6-10 mm 5-7 mm
Habitat Mountains Farmland
Diet Predators Dung Feeders
Regions North America Europe, North America
Conservation Least Concern Least Concern

Eastern Net-Winged Midge

A net-winged midge whose larvae cling to rocks in the fastest torrents using ventral suction discs. Adults have characteristically divided wings.

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Did You Know?

Larvae can maintain their grip on rocks in currents exceeding two meters per second using six suction cups.

Sweat Fly

A small dark fly attracted to perspiration on humans and livestock. It forms dense head-circling swarms in summer that can be extremely annoying.

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Did You Know?

Swarms of these flies can reduce cattle weight gain by causing constant head-tossing behavior.