Golden-backed Snipe Fly vs Autumn Horse Fly

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Golden-backed Snipe Fly Autumn Horse Fly
Scientific Name Chrysopilus thoracicus Tabanus autumnalis
Order Diptera Diptera
Family Rhagionidae Tabanidae
Size 8-12 mm 16-22 mm
Habitat Woodlands Heathland
Diet Herbivores Blood Feeders
Regions Eastern North America Europe, North Africa, Western Asia
Conservation Least Concern Least Concern

Golden-backed Snipe Fly

A striking fly with golden thoracic hairs and dark wings that rests head-down on foliage. Larvae are predators in soil and leaf litter.

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Did You Know?

It characteristically rests on vegetation with its head pointed downward, ready to pounce on passing prey.

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.