Deer Fly
ExploreInsects
Deer Fly
Chrysops spp.
The Deer Fly is another biting fly that loves to hang out in sunny places. They are attracted to animals and people!
Habitat: Forests, fields, and near water
Appearance
The Deer Fly has striking iridescent eyes that are often patterned with green, gold, or purple bands. Its body is usually yellow-brown to dark brown with dark stripes on its abdomen. Its wings often have distinct dark patches, making it visually different from a common house fly.
KingdomAnimaliaPhylumArthropodaClassInsectaOrderDipteraFamilyTabanidaeGenusChrysops
Category
InsectsRarity
Common
Danger
2/5 · Low
Snaps
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Interesting facts
Deer fly larvae live in wet soil and water, hunting tiny worms and insects.
Only female deer flies bite animals to get protein for their eggs.
Some species of deer flies are attracted to the carbon dioxide we breathe out.
Their amazing iridescent eyes are covered in beautiful patterns and stripes.
Special abilities
Ability
Razor Mouthparts
Deer Fly can slice skin with its blade-like mouthparts to drink blood, a super protein boost for laying eggs.
Ability
Target Vision
Deer Fly has large, colorful compound eyes that help them quickly spot warm-blooded animals, their food source.
Ability
Silent Approach
Deer Fly can fly very quietly, allowing them to approach animals for a bite without being easily detected.
Ability
Aquatic Nurseries
Deer Fly lays eggs in wet soil or vegetation near water, where their larvae develop and hunt small creatures.
Measurements & details
- Wingspan
- 15-25 mm
- Size
- 7-10 mm
- Lifespan
- 15-30 days
- Flight Speed
- 20 km/h
- Leg Count
- 6
Diet & Feeding
Female deer flies drink blood for eggs, while males enjoy sweet flower nectar.
Age differences: Larvae are predatory, eating small invertebrates; adults feed on blood (females) or nectar (males).
Primary Foods
- mammal blood
- bird blood
- nectar
- honeydew
Foraging Method
- Ambush
Ecological connections
eaten by
Barn Swallow
Hirundo rustica
Deer flies are a food source for these agile insect-eating birds.
eaten by
Common Green Darner
Anax junius
This dragonfly often preys on deer flies in flight near water.
parasitizes
White-tailed Deer
Odocoileus virginianus
Female deer flies bite deer to get blood for their egg development.
eats
Common Milkweed
Asclepias syriaca
Male deer flies drink nectar from flowers like milkweed for energy.
Traits
Wildlife
Wildlife encompasses all undomesticated animal and plant life existing in their natural habitats.
Social
Social animals live in organized groups, cooperating for survival benefits such as foraging, defense, and raising offspring.
Ambush Predator
An ambush predator hunts by patiently waiting and concealing itself, then launching a sudden attack when unsuspecting prey comes within range.
Forest
Forest habitats are terrestrial environments dominated by dense tree cover, supporting a high diversity of plant and animal life.
Nocturnal
Nocturnal animals are primarily active during the nighttime hours, typically resting or sleeping during the day.
Also known as
Horse Fly
Collections
Safety
Danger
2/5 · Low
Do not touch or pick up. Some insects sting or bite. Ask an adult for help.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Deer Fly's wingspan?
15-25 mm
How big is Deer Fly?
7-10 mm
How long does Deer Fly live?
15-30 days
How fast can Deer Fly fly?
20 km/h
What does Deer Fly eat?
Female deer flies drink blood for eggs, while males enjoy sweet flower nectar.
Where is Deer Fly usually found?
Forests, fields, and near water
How does Deer Fly hunt?
Ambush
How many legs does Deer Fly have?
6
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