About Blandford Fly
A notorious black fly that causes severe allergic reactions with its bite around the Blandford area of Dorset. Females need blood meals for egg development. Larvae develop in clean rivers.
Did You Know?
Named after Blandford Forum in Dorset where outbreaks of painful bites affect thousands of people each summer.
How to Identify Blandford Fly
Blandford Fly (Simulium posticatum) belongs to the order Diptera, family Simuliidae. Adults typically measure 2-3 mm.
Blandford Fly Habitat
Blandford Fly is found in rivers & streams habitats, particularly across Europe. This species has adapted to thrive in its preferred environment, where it can find suitable food sources and shelter.
Blandford Fly Diet and Feeding
Blandford 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 Blandford Fly Found?
Blandford Fly can be found in Europe, where it inhabits rivers & streams environments. Its distribution is influenced by climate, food availability, and habitat suitability.
Distribution Map
Where Blandford Fly can be found
Is Blandford Fly Dangerous?
Blandford 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.
Blandford Fly Role in Nature
Blandford Fly plays a role in its ecosystem as part of the food web, serving as both consumer and prey. Insects like Blandford 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 Blandford Fly
What does Blandford Fly look like?
The Blandford Fly typically measures 2-3 mm.
Where is Blandford Fly found?
The Blandford Fly is found in Europe and typically inhabits rivers & streams environments.
What does Blandford Fly eat?
The Blandford Fly feeds on the blood of mammals, birds, or other animals.
Is Blandford Fly dangerous to humans?
The Blandford 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 Blandford Fly?
Named after Blandford Forum in Dorset where outbreaks of painful bites affect thousands of people each summer.
Cite This Page
APA:
InsectDiscover. (2026). Blandford Fly (Simulium posticatum). Retrieved from https://insectdiscover.com/insect/blandford-fly
MLA:
"Blandford Fly." InsectDiscover, https://insectdiscover.com/insect/blandford-fly.