About Deer Fly (Chrysops)
A medium-sized fly with striking patterned wings and bright green eyes. It is the primary vector of Loa loa, the African eyeworm, in the rainforests of West and Central Africa. It bites during the day, especially around the forest canopy.
Did You Know?
The Loa loa worm it transmits can sometimes be seen migrating across the white of the eye, earning it the name 'African eyeworm'.
How to Identify Deer Fly (Chrysops)
Deer Fly (Chrysops) (Chrysops silacea) belongs to the order Diptera, family Tabanidae. Adults typically measure 8-12 mm.
Deer Fly (Chrysops) Habitat
Deer Fly (Chrysops) is found in forests habitats, particularly across West and Central Africa, Congo Basin. This species has adapted to thrive in its preferred environment, where it can find suitable food sources and shelter.
Deer Fly (Chrysops) Diet and Feeding
Deer Fly (Chrysops) 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 Deer Fly (Chrysops) Found?
Deer Fly (Chrysops) can be found in West and Central Africa, Congo Basin, where it inhabits forests environments. Its distribution is influenced by climate, food availability, and habitat suitability.
Distribution Map
Where Deer Fly (Chrysops) can be found
Is Deer Fly (Chrysops) Dangerous?
Deer Fly (Chrysops) 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.
Deer Fly (Chrysops) Role in Nature
Deer Fly (Chrysops) plays a role in its ecosystem as part of the food web, serving as both consumer and prey. Insects like Deer Fly (Chrysops) 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 Deer Fly (Chrysops)
What does Deer Fly (Chrysops) look like?
The Deer Fly (Chrysops) typically measures 8-12 mm.
Where is Deer Fly (Chrysops) found?
The Deer Fly (Chrysops) is found in West and Central Africa, Congo Basin and typically inhabits forests environments.
What does Deer Fly (Chrysops) eat?
The Deer Fly (Chrysops) feeds on the blood of mammals, birds, or other animals.
Is Deer Fly (Chrysops) dangerous to humans?
The Deer Fly (Chrysops) 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 Deer Fly (Chrysops)?
The Loa loa worm it transmits can sometimes be seen migrating across the white of the eye, earning it the name 'African eyeworm'.
Cite This Page
APA:
InsectDiscover. (2026). Deer Fly (Chrysops) (Chrysops silacea). Retrieved from https://insectdiscover.com/insect/deer-fly-chrysops
MLA:
"Deer Fly (Chrysops)." InsectDiscover, https://insectdiscover.com/insect/deer-fly-chrysops.