CHRYSOPS DEER FLY
Chrysops sp.
DEER FLY FAMILY (Tabanidae)
Description
This deer fly is approximately 1/2 inch in length. Flies in this genus are typically smaller than horse flies. The large, segmented antennae are tan at the base and black at the tip. The eyes are usually spotted. The female’s eyes are separated and the male’s eyes touch on top of the head. The thorax is tan with brown longitudinal stripes. The abdomen is tan with black bands. The wings are cloudy with large, dark blotches. The male shown here was photographed at artificial lights at night.
Occurrence
These flies are presumed to be fairly common. Only the females bite. The males take nectar at flowers, but they are rarely seen.
Comments
There are about 80 species of Chrysops in North America. The eggs are laid on vegetation overhanging water or wet soil. The larvae live mostly in water or wet mud and are predatory on other insects and worms. The pupae are usually found in the soil.
Disclaimer: The content of NatureSearch is provided by dedicated volunteer Naturalists of Fontenelle Nature Association who strive to provide the most accurate information available. Contributors of the images retain their copyrights. The point of contact for this page
is: Loren Padelford.
|
|
