Animal Profiles
Insects

Horsefly

Tabanidae

Living

Living individuals or members of this group exist today. This does not mean they are safe from extinction.

Horseflies include many species. This account follows the black horsefly (Tabanus atratus), whose large dark adults occur in North America.

Tabanus atratus, the representative described in this account.

Tabanus atratus, the representative described in this account.

gailhampshire from Cradley, Malvern, U.K · CC BY

At a glance

Location
Black horseflies use varied habitats, including woodland and open country.
Habitat
Grassland, Temperate forest, Wetlands
Diet
Omnivore
Food
Females take mammal blood to support egg production.

Classification

Common name
Horsefly
Browse group
Insects
Scientific name or taxon
Tabanidae
Taxon rank
family
Order
Diptera
Family
Tabanidae
Source classification
Insecta

Taxonomy checked against GBIF. For breeds and hybrids, this describes the listed parent taxon.

Three things to know

  • Females take blood meals.
  • Males feed on plant liquids.
  • Adults are active during daylight.

Habitat and range

Black horseflies use varied habitats, including woodland and open country. Moist areas support egg laying and development, while adult females seek mammals for blood meals.

Appearance and adaptations

The body and wings are predominantly dark. Large compound eyes occupy much of the head; females have separated eyes, whereas the male eyes meet above.

Diet and behaviour

Females take mammal blood to support egg production. Males instead feed on nectar and other plant juices. These daytime-active flies therefore have different feeding roles according to sex.

Sources

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