Warble Fly vs Northern Black Fly
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Warble Fly | Northern Black Fly |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Hypoderma bovis | Simulium venustum |
| Order | Diptera | Diptera |
| Family | Oestridae | Simuliidae |
| Size | 13-15 mm | 2-4 mm |
| Habitat | Farmland | Forests |
| Diet | Predators | Omnivores |
| Regions | Europe, Asia, North America | North America |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Warble Fly
A large, hairy bee-like fly whose larvae migrate through the bodies of cattle for months before emerging from cysts in the back. Adults have vestigial mouthparts and cannot feed.
Did You Know?
The buzzing of a single warble fly approaching can cause an entire herd of cattle to stampede in panic, a behavior called gadding.
Northern Black Fly
A common biting black fly of northern forests and boreal streams. Larvae form dense colonies on submerged rocks in cold flowing water.
Did You Know?
Females can detect carbon dioxide exhaled by hosts from over 20 meters away.