Do Flies Drink Human Blood?
WouterMany people have a misconception about flies and the fact that they do not drink human blood. While flies can bite, they generally do so for the purpose of gaining nutrition. In addition to providing nutrients, flies also provide many other benefits to humans. People who are allergic to flies may experience an allergic reaction to the bite, which can be painful. Fly bites can also cause headaches and fever. Severe cases may even require hospitalization.
A recent study by the University of Bristol looked at how flies feed. It found that the flies suck up skin secretions, such as sweat and other substances. They also like proteins, carbohydrates, and salts in dead skin. In addition to these sources of nutrition, flies are attracted to carbon dioxide and other compounds found in human skin.
Female mosquitoes need blood as a source of energy, while male mosquitoes do not need human blood to survive. Female mosquitoes need human blood to produce their eggs. While this method is harmless, mosquitoes are extremely harmful to humans. In addition to the unpleasant itchy bites they cause, mosquitoes are known to transmit a wide variety of diseases. As one of the deadliest animals on earth, it’s best to avoid being bitten by mosquitoes when possible.
Besides insects, other animals like bats and fish also practice hematophagy. Some of these species are strictly hematophagous. Some animals such as human bed bugs and South American assassin bugs require a blood meal to lay their eggs.
