How do they look?

Horseflies are large to medium-sized insects with large compound eyes, short antennae consisting of three segments, and robust bodies. In females, the eyes are widely separated, while in males, the eyes are almost contiguous. The eyes are often brightly colored and contrasting. Short hairs cover the head and thorax. They have two membranous wings, usually in gray or brown color.

Where do they live?

Horseflies are generally found in moist areas near water. Female horseflies lay eggs in water on coastal plants. Hatched larvae fall into the water or soil and develop in marshes, meadows, and lake shores.

What do they eat?

Horsefly females feed on the blood of mammals, including humans, and can transmit disease pathogens when feeding on sick animals. Males, on the other hand, primarily feed on flower nectar and plant sap. Some horsefly larvae are predatory, consuming the larvae of other insects, while others feed on plant debris.

Interesting and important facts

The largest ones are gadflies (19-25 cm long). In the horsefly family, there are also golden ones - their eyes are golden-green in color.

Information sources: https://www.latvijasdaba.lv, Wikipedia, Kreslina L. ‘Insects in Latvia’

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