June 30, 2000

     Deer Flies

Horse flies and deer flies belong to the same insect family and can be included in a list of summer's most bothersome insects.  They are now living up to this description.

The females are blood-sucking insects.  Their mouth parts are developed for cutting the skin and sucking the blood that oozes from the wound, while the males feed chiefly on pollen and nectar and are often found on flowers.

The larvae of most species are aquatic.  Eggs are laid in masses on leaves and other objects that overhang the water in swamps or sluggish streams.  After the maggots hatch, they drop into the water and stay in the bottom mud or sand where they feed on snails and other aquatic organisms.

Humans, together with horses, cattle, hogs, deer and other wild and domesticated animals, are attacked by horse and deer flies that sometimes carry diseases.  These insects are strong fliers, easily keeping up with a running horse.

We usually encounter deer flies near marshes and streams where they buzz around our heads and get into our hair.  Protection of arms, legs and any exposed skin is necessary for outdoor enjoyment when they are present.