Everyone is familiar with pesky and the problems they can cause. And if you’re from Oklahoma chances are really good you’ve have at least a few encounters with horseflies as well.
People tend to lump all flies into the same category, which makes some sense given their visual similarities. In reality, flies of various species are really quite different. This is certainly true of houseflies and horseflies.
Not only are horseflies larger than houseflies, but their lifecycles and environmental preferences are surprisingly dissimilar. For instance, houseflies are part of a group known as “filth flies” because they reproduce in animal waste and decaying organic matter. In contrast, horsefly larvae develop in mud and wet soil along the edge of ponds, streams, drainage ditches, etc. This is not at all what you’d expect from a pest known for loitering around farm animals!
Adult horseflies are dark colored, can grow houseflies up to 1 1/4 inches and are quite adept at flying. Interestingly, they are not fond of barns or stables as they prefer open spaces, damp areas, and broad daylight. They avoid shady areas and are inactive during night hours.
Only female horseflies bite. Males have weak mouthparts that only allow them to feed on nectar and other plant products. The mouths are of females are constructed in such a way they can pierce even the tough hides of large animals. They bite and cut through skin with mandible-like, serrated pincers, then slice off the top layer of flesh, and then lick the blood. The process is quite painful, a lot like needle pricks, and can hurt even more than a bee sting.
Horseflies bite as part of their reproductive cycle. They extract protein from their host’s blood to produce eggs. As painful as their bites can be, the wounds are usually harmless. Home care and patience are usually all that are needed to recover.
If bitten you can expect an inflamed, red bump to develop at the puncture site. This is a result of histamines injected during the biting process. Some people, however, suffer severe symptoms, including:
– Rashes, hives, or other allergic reaction
– Swelling around their lips and eyes
– Weakness and dizziness
– Infection or a bacterial infection
These conditions require quick professional medical treatment. Do not delay if any of these things occur.
Protect yourself from horseflies
Horseflies are one of the most annoying pests that you can meet. All you have to do is breathe to get their attention. They are attracted to the carbon dioxide you exhale, your body heat, and any motion you make. Consequently, avoiding them can prove difficult. Fortunately, you can take some steps to discourage them from crashing your party:
– Purchase a horsefly trap to lure the flies into a container
– Use a horsefly spray to kill the horseflies on contact
– Wear light-colored clothing to reduce attraction
Stinging and biting insects like horseflies, bees, and wasps are at the very least nuisances, and can be dangerous to your physical health. Their presence has been the source of severe anxiety for many, and can destroy even the most perfectly planned backyard barbecue.
Don’t worry though, as we can help! We have years of experience dealing with pests like these. Contact KC Pest Control at (405) 679-8729.
