Horse and Deer Flies
Tabanidae
American horse fly (Sturgis McKeever, Georgia Southern University, Bugwood.org)
Horse fly (Sturgis McKeever, Georgia Southern University, Bugwood.org)
Deer fly (Sturgis McKeever, Georgia Southern University, Bugwood.org)
Identification
Horse flies
- large; brown or black in color
- large colorful eyes
- biting; sword-like piercing/sucking mouthparts
Deer flies
- generally smaller than horse flies
- yellowish brown to brownish black in color
- dark markings on wings
- biting; sword-like piercing/sucking mouthparts
Nesting Habits
- develop in moist or aquatic areas like moist soil, ponds, lakes and marshes
Diet
- females: animal blood
- males: flower nectar
Significance
- can travel up to a mile from breeding sites
- inflict painful bites that can result in visible, bleeding wounds
- transmission of tularemia and anthrax possible, but very rare
- rarely a significant problem inside structures
- can be a severe outdoor problem in areas near wetland habitats
IPM Recommendations
- If large numbers of deer or horse flies are present, inspect the area for possible breeding sites. (Breeding sites may be located off property.)
- Install properly fitting screens in windows.
- Use insect light traps to catch flies inside.
- Fly traps can reduce populations outdoors.
- Keep doors and windows closed, or open with properly fitted screens.