Golden-backed Snipe Fly vs Sweet Itch Midge
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Golden-backed Snipe Fly | Sweet Itch Midge |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Chrysopilus thoracicus | Culicoides obsoletus |
| Order | Diptera | Diptera |
| Family | Rhagionidae | Ceratopogonidae |
| Size | 8-12 mm | 1-3 mm |
| Habitat | Woodlands | Underground |
| Diet | Herbivores | Blood Feeders |
| Regions | Eastern North America | Europe, 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.
Did You Know?
It characteristically rests on vegetation with its head pointed downward, ready to pounce on passing prey.
Sweet Itch Midge
A tiny dark biting midge with patterned wings that causes an allergic skin condition called sweet itch in horses. It breeds in moist, organically rich habitats.
Did You Know?
It is the primary vector of Bluetongue virus in livestock across Europe.