Louse Fly vs Crane Fly
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Louse Fly | Crane Fly |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Hippobosca equina | Tipula paludosa |
| Order | Diptera | Diptera |
| Family | Hippoboscidae | Tipulidae |
| Size | 7-8 mm | 15-25 mm |
| Habitat | Farmland | Gardens |
| Diet | Blood Feeders | Root Feeders |
| Regions | Europe, Asia, Africa | Europe, North America, Asia |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Louse Fly
A flattened bloodsucking fly parasite of horses and cattle with powerful clawed legs for clinging to fur. Adults are incredibly tough and difficult to crush.
Did You Know?
Its body is so tough and flattened that it can withstand being stepped on by its horse host without injury.
Crane Fly
Often mistaken for giant mosquitoes but completely harmless. Adults often do not feed at all. Larvae (leatherjackets) live in soil and can be lawn pests.
Did You Know?
Despite looking terrifying, crane flies are completely harmless — they cannot bite or sting. Most adults live just a few days and many never eat at all.