Saltmarsh Greenhead Flies
ExploreInsects
Saltmarsh Greenhead Flies
Tabanus nigrovittatus
Saltmarsh Greenhead Flies are buzzing insects often found near water. They are known for their big eyes and love for sunny days. These flies can be a bit annoying, but they play a role in nature!
Habitat: Wetlands
Appearance
The Saltmarsh Greenhead Fly is a robust insect with a dark, often grayish-brown body and distinctively large, iridescent green eyes that meet in males. Its wings are clear or slightly smoky, and its antennae are short and stout. This appearance helps it stand out from smaller, more delicate flies.
KingdomAnimaliaPhylumArthropodaClassInsectaOrderDipteraFamilyTabanidaeGenusTabanus
Category
InsectsRarity
Common
Danger
2/5 · Low
Snaps
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Interesting facts
Only female Saltmarsh Greenhead Flies bite to get blood for their eggs!
Some people use sticky blue panels to trap these flies in coastal areas!
Their larvae live hidden in mud and eat tiny insects or other larvae!
They are vital food for dragonflies and birds in marsh ecosystems!
Special abilities
Ability
Razor Mouthparts
Saltmarsh Greenhead Flies has blade-like mouthparts that help them cut skin to feed on blood.
Ability
Heat Radar
Saltmarsh Greenhead Flies can sense body heat from far away that helps them locate warm-blooded animals.
Ability
Super Sight
Saltmarsh Greenhead Flies has large, emerald green eyes that help them spot hosts and movement from a distance.
Measurements & details
- Wingspan
- 25-50 mm
- Size
- 10-25 mm
- Lifespan
- 15-30 days
- Leg Count
- 6
Diet & Feeding
Female Saltmarsh Greenhead Flies drink blood for their eggs, while males and some females sip nectar.
Age differences: Larvae are predatory, feeding on small insects and invertebrates in the mud.
Primary Foods
- mammal blood
- bird blood
- flower nectar
- plant sap
Foraging Method
- Pursuit
Ecological connections
eaten by
Common Whitetail
Libellula cyanea
Dragonflies hunt adult flies.
eaten by
American Robin
Turdus migratorius
Birds prey on adult flies.
parasitizes
Human
Homo sapiens
Females bite mammals for blood.
depends on
Red Maple
Acer rubrum
Adults feed on tree sap.
Traits
Omnivorous
This trait identifies organisms whose diet includes both plant and animal matter.
Colorful
Colorful describes organisms or objects displaying a wide range of bright and distinct colors.
Pollinator Magnet
Describes plants that are particularly attractive and beneficial to a wide range of pollinating organisms.
Wetland
This habitat trait identifies species found in wetlands, which are areas of land saturated with water, either permanently or seasonally, including marshes, swamps, and bogs.
Diurnal
Diurnal animals are primarily active during daylight hours, typically resting or sleeping at night.
Speedster
This trait identifies organisms that exhibit exceptional swiftness in movement for hunting, escape, or travel.
Pollinator
Describes organisms that transfer pollen, enabling the fertilization and reproduction of plants.
Also known as
No aliases listed yet.
Collections
Safety
Danger
2/5 · Low
If you see a fly, it's best to stay calm and not swat at it. Just let it fly away!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Saltmarsh Greenhead Flies's wingspan?
25-50 mm
How big is Saltmarsh Greenhead Flies?
10-25 mm
How long does Saltmarsh Greenhead Flies live?
15-30 days
What does Saltmarsh Greenhead Flies eat?
Female Saltmarsh Greenhead Flies drink blood for their eggs, while males and some females sip nectar.
Where is Saltmarsh Greenhead Flies usually found?
Wetlands
How does Saltmarsh Greenhead Flies hunt?
Pursuit
How many legs does Saltmarsh Greenhead Flies have?
6
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