Louse Fly vs Giant Net-Winged Midge

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Louse Fly Giant Net-Winged Midge
Scientific Name Hippobosca equina Bibiocephala grandis
Order Diptera Diptera
Family Hippoboscidae Blephariceridae
Size 7-8 mm 10-15 mm
Habitat Farmland Mountains
Diet Blood Feeders Omnivores
Regions Europe, Asia, Africa North America
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.

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Did You Know?

Its body is so tough and flattened that it can withstand being stepped on by its horse host without injury.

Giant Net-Winged Midge

The largest net-winged midge in North America, found in powerful western mountain torrents. Larvae have six robust suction discs for gripping wet rock.

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Did You Know?

At up to 15 mm, it is a giant among net-winged midges, most of which are under 8 mm.