πŸͺ° Flies

Notch-horned Cleg

Haematopota pluvialis

About Notch-horned Cleg

A grey horse fly with mottled wings that approaches silently before biting. It is one of the most common biting flies in Europe.

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Did You Know?

Unlike most horse flies, the cleg approaches completely silently, landing and biting before being noticed.

How to Identify Notch-horned Cleg

Notch-horned Cleg (Haematopota pluvialis) belongs to the order Diptera, family Tabanidae. Adults typically measure 8-12 mm.

Notch-horned Cleg Habitat

Notch-horned Cleg is found in hedgerows habitats, particularly across Europe, Western Asia. This species has adapted to thrive in its preferred environment, where it can find suitable food sources and shelter.

Notch-horned Cleg Diet and Feeding

Notch-horned Cleg 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 Notch-horned Cleg Found?

Notch-horned Cleg can be found in Europe, Western Asia, where it inhabits hedgerows environments. Its distribution is influenced by climate, food availability, and habitat suitability.

Distribution Map

Where Notch-horned Cleg can be found

Is Notch-horned Cleg Dangerous?

Notch-horned Cleg 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.

Notch-horned Cleg Role in Nature

Notch-horned Cleg plays a role in its ecosystem as part of the food web, serving as both consumer and prey. Insects like Notch-horned Cleg are a vital food source for birds, bats, and other wildlife, and contribute to the overall health and balance of their environment.

Seasonal Activity

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Peak activity Moderate Low / dormant

Frequently Asked Questions About Notch-horned Cleg

What does Notch-horned Cleg look like?

The Notch-horned Cleg typically measures 8-12 mm.

Where is Notch-horned Cleg found?

The Notch-horned Cleg is found in Europe, Western Asia and typically inhabits hedgerows environments.

What does Notch-horned Cleg eat?

The Notch-horned Cleg feeds on the blood of mammals, birds, or other animals.

Is Notch-horned Cleg dangerous to humans?

The Notch-horned Cleg 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 Notch-horned Cleg?

Unlike most horse flies, the cleg approaches completely silently, landing and biting before being noticed.

Cite This Page

APA:
InsectDiscover. (2026). Notch-horned Cleg (Haematopota pluvialis). Retrieved from https://insectdiscover.com/insect/notch-horned-cleg

MLA:
"Notch-horned Cleg." InsectDiscover, https://insectdiscover.com/insect/notch-horned-cleg.