horsefly
a kind of insect – belongs to ‘true fly’ family – biting type — large elongated body, usually black but brown and grey are also common; about 1 inch long; 6 legs and 2 wings only, large eyes; feeds on (eats) (males) pollen and nectar of flowers,
(female) pollen, nectar and the blood of animals, including humans; lives for 30-60 days, but the entire life cycle may take 1 year; some large species can live for 2-3 years; about 3,000 species (kinds) found world-wide, with the exception of a few areas
Special Features:
Horse flies are the largest flies that suck blood of other animals. Their bite is known to be very painful, and is known to transmit serious diseases. These flies feed mostly on horses, cattle, and some species are known to feed on birds
The smaller species of horse flies are called ‘clegs’ and the larger species are called ‘stouts’.
- female horsefly biting a person
Only the female horse flies bite the other animals to suck blood from them; the females need the blood supply, in addition to the regular diet of pollen and nectar, for producing their eggs!!
<<< Back to List H —- Next … hound >>>
About the Author:BC Kumar
BC Kumar, an English Language Teacher, taught in numerous countries including Ethiopia, Oman and India, shares his knowledge and passion for the English Language. Disclaimer: This is a free educational website and all content has been compiled by the author. All copyrights to images and videos belong to their respective owners.
