How Big Are Horse Flies?
WouterHorse flies are closely related to deer flies but are much larger. They have black or brown bodies and dark markings on their wings. Horse flies feed on the blood of other animals and humans. They can be quite unpleasant. Their bites can be very painful and can decrease milk production in cattle and horses. They can also interfere with grazing for both cattle and horses. However, they are much less dangerous to humans than deer flies, which can bite much harder.
The adult horse fly is a brownish color with short antennae. The flies are about a half-inch long. Their wings have small smoky spots on them. Their mouthparts are similar to sponges, but the females’ mouthparts are blade-like. The flies can slash blood vessels and tissues, which makes them particularly dangerous for horses. Horse flies bite because they can smell carbon dioxide, so you should avoid them if you can.
Horse flies are relatively easy to identify, but their size can make them difficult to kill. They measure between 3/4 to one-quarter of an inch in length, and have black or gray wings. They are common in moist areas, but can also be found in deserts and mountain meadows.
The body of a horse fly is robust and their wings are covered with small hairs. Horse flies are a nuisance, and can wreak havoc on outdoor activities, such as gardening and horseback riding. Horse flies can be annoying to humans, but can also be harmful to livestock.
