Warble Fly vs Ornate Soldier Fly
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Warble Fly | Ornate Soldier Fly |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Hypoderma bovis | Odontomyia ornata |
| Order | Diptera | Diptera |
| Family | Oestridae | Stratiomyidae |
| Size | 13-15 mm | 8-12 mm |
| Habitat | Farmland | Ponds & Lakes |
| Diet | Predators | Herbivores |
| Regions | Europe, Asia, North America | Europe |
| 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.
Ornate Soldier Fly
A medium-sized soldier fly with a green and black patterned abdomen and a somewhat flattened body. Adults are sluggish fliers often found basking on waterside vegetation.
Did You Know?
Its aquatic larvae have a unique hydrophobic tail fringe that acts as a breathing snorkel at the water surface.