Semaphore Fly vs Bush Fly
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Semaphore Fly | Bush Fly |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Poecilobothrus nobilitatus | Musca vetustissima |
| Order | Diptera | Diptera |
| Family | Dolichopodidae | Muscidae |
| Size | 5-7 mm | 5-7 mm |
| Habitat | Gardens | Farmland |
| Diet | Omnivores | Dung Feeders |
| Regions | Europe | Australia |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Semaphore Fly
A tiny metallic green fly where males have conspicuous white-tipped wings used in semaphore-like courtship displays. It is extremely common around garden ponds and puddles.
Did You Know?
Males stand on mud and wave their white-tipped wings like semaphore flags to attract females watching nearby.
Bush Fly
Australia's most iconic nuisance fly, swarming around faces to feed on moisture. It breeds in cattle dung across the Australian outback.
Did You Know?
The classic 'Aussie salute' — waving a hand in front of the face — exists because of this fly.