About Autumn Horse Fly
A large greyish horse fly active in late summer and autumn. It has striking green-banded eyes and a persistent biting habit.
Did You Know?
It is one of the few horse fly species that remains active well into October.
How to Identify Autumn Horse Fly
Autumn Horse Fly (Tabanus autumnalis) belongs to the order Diptera, family Tabanidae. Adults typically measure 16-22 mm.
Autumn Horse Fly Habitat
Autumn Horse Fly is found in heathland habitats, particularly across Europe, North Africa, Western Asia. This species has adapted to thrive in its preferred environment, where it can find suitable food sources and shelter.
Autumn Horse Fly Diet and Feeding
Autumn Horse Fly is a blood-feeding species that obtains nutrients by feeding on the blood of mammals, birds, or other animals. Blood feeders have specialised mouthparts adapted for piercing skin.
Where Is Autumn Horse Fly Found?
Autumn Horse Fly can be found in Europe, North Africa, Western Asia, where it inhabits heathland environments. Its distribution is influenced by climate, food availability, and habitat suitability.
Distribution Map
Where Autumn Horse Fly can be found
Is Autumn Horse Fly Dangerous?
Autumn Horse Fly is a blood-feeding insect that bites humans and animals to obtain a blood meal. Bites can cause irritation, itching, and in some cases allergic reactions. Some blood-feeding insects are known to transmit diseases, so precautions should be taken to avoid bites.
Autumn Horse Fly Role in Nature
Autumn Horse Fly plays a role in its ecosystem as part of the food web, serving as both consumer and prey. Insects like Autumn Horse Fly are a vital food source for birds, bats, and other wildlife, and contribute to the overall health and balance of their environment.
Seasonal Activity
Frequently Asked Questions About Autumn Horse Fly
What does Autumn Horse Fly look like?
The Autumn Horse Fly typically measures 16-22 mm.
Where is Autumn Horse Fly found?
The Autumn Horse Fly is found in Europe, North Africa, Western Asia and typically inhabits heathland environments.
What does Autumn Horse Fly eat?
The Autumn Horse Fly feeds on the blood of mammals, birds, or other animals.
Is Autumn Horse Fly dangerous to humans?
The Autumn Horse Fly is a blood-feeding insect that bites humans and animals. Some blood feeders can transmit diseases. Take precautions to avoid bites.
What is an interesting fact about Autumn Horse Fly?
It is one of the few horse fly species that remains active well into October.
Cite This Page
APA:
InsectDiscover. (2026). Autumn Horse Fly (Tabanus autumnalis). Retrieved from https://insectdiscover.com/insect/autumn-horse-fly
MLA:
"Autumn Horse Fly." InsectDiscover, https://insectdiscover.com/insect/autumn-horse-fly.