Knwon for her bloodsucking habits, Horse Fly is an unwelcome Insect. Because She lives around Horses, Mules, and Donkeys, She is named “Horse Fly”. Horse Fly takes blood from these animals to use as protein to make her eggs.
For a Fly, She has many unique attributes. Although She has a short and stocky body, Horse Fly flies fast. People have seen Her chasing cars and trains. Sturdily built, Horse Fly can fly long distances. In search of food, She has tracked and bitten people on board ships about 50 meters offshore. Although her body is somber in color, Horse Fly’s large eyes display a prism of colors. Shining incandescently, her sparkling eyes gives off a feeling of beauty.
Most of Horse Fly’s life is spent in the Larval Stage. As a Larva, She can delay pupation if the local food supply is short. If need be, Horse Fly Larva can survive without eating for several months. In fact, in temperate climates, She hibernates for the winter.
When Horse Fly emerges as an Adult from her Pupation Stage, She has a short and busy life. On a mission to lay eggs, She seeks out a Mate first. Then during the hot summer months, Horse Fly finds Horses for protein. After taking their blood,, She searches for a place to lay her eggs. Preferring damp places, She lays Them in wet earth or rotten wood. However, if She cannot find any, Horse Fly will lay her eggs on Horses’ legs.
Horse Fly teaches how to adapt. As a Larva, She adapts to the conditions She finds Herself in. As an Adult, She will take blood not only from Horses but also from Turtles for protein to develop her eggs. Horse Fly’s willingness to adapt is a major reason why She is common worldwide.
Horse Fly Photo copyrighted by Fritz von Beust, Visipix.com
Va. Carper
March 30, 2003