Farmyard Midge vs Narrow-banded Hoverfly
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Farmyard Midge | Narrow-banded Hoverfly |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Culicoides nubeculosus | Meliscaeva auricollis |
| Order | Diptera | Diptera |
| Family | Ceratopogonidae | Syrphidae |
| Size | 2 mm | 7-10 mm |
| Habitat | Farmland | Underground |
| Diet | Dung Feeders | Nectar Feeders |
| Regions | Europe | Europe, Asia |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Farmyard Midge
A tiny biting midge that breeds in mud contaminated by dung or sewage. Adults suck blood from horses and cattle. Can transmit bluetongue virus and African horse sickness.
Did You Know?
Despite being only 2mm long, it is the primary vector of bluetongue virus, a devastating livestock disease.
Narrow-banded Hoverfly
A small hoverfly with narrow yellow crescent markings on a dark abdomen. It is among the first hoverflies to appear in spring.
Did You Know?
Adults can be seen flying as early as February in mild winters.