Why Do Flies Bite Humans?

There are many misconceptions about flies and why they bite humans. While certain species like black flies and stable flies are known to bite humans, the common house fly does not. However, flies do pose a threat because they can carry various diseases. Moreover, they can cause painful bites if you are exposed to them.

When a fly bites you, it injects its saliva into your skin. The sting can result in redness, swelling, and itching. In some people, this can trigger a life-threatening allergic reaction. In severe cases, you may even experience breathing difficulties, wheezing, or shortness of breath.

Some species of flies are harmless, while others can be quite irritating. Some, such as black flies, feed on the blood of humans. These flies usually hover around the head and bite exposed areas like the wrists, ankles, and waistline. They also attack the hairline. Fortunately, black flies do not transmit any diseases in North America, though they may carry nematodes that can cause infections.

Sand flies, which are also known as black flies, feed on human blood to produce their eggs. These flies also bite animals, including birds and other mammals. The females of these insects also feed on penguins.

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