Sheep Ked vs Narrow-banded Hoverfly
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Sheep Ked | Narrow-banded Hoverfly |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Melophagus ovinus | Meliscaeva auricollis |
| Order | Diptera | Diptera |
| Family | Hippoboscidae | Syrphidae |
| Size | 4-7 mm | 7-10 mm |
| Habitat | Farmland | Underground |
| Diet | Blood Feeders | Nectar Feeders |
| Regions | Cosmopolitan - worldwide where sheep are raised | Europe, Asia |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Sheep Ked
A completely wingless, tick-like blood-sucking fly that lives permanently in sheep wool. Its flattened body and strong claws allow it to cling firmly to wool fibers.
Did You Know?
Despite being called a ked or tick, it is actually a true fly that has completely lost its wings through evolution.
Narrow-banded Hoverfly
A small hoverfly with narrow yellow crescent markings on a dark abdomen. It is among the first hoverflies to appear in spring.
Did You Know?
Adults can be seen flying as early as February in mild winters.