Deer Flies

Category:

Actual Size: ½”

Characteristics: Long; yellow-brown to brownish-black with mottled wings.

Legs: 6

Antennae: Yes

Wings: Yes

Habitat: Prefers moist habitats like marshes, woodland ponds, and streams and rarely found near homes.

Habits:

  • Similar to horse flies; do not breed inside structures.
  • Bites can be very painful resulting in visible wounds.
  • Tularemia can be transmitted to humans by the bite of a deer fly.


Deer flies and horse flies are large, heavy-bodied insects that are persistent pests of wildlife, livestock, and humans. Their blood-sucking habits also raise concerns about the possible transmission of disease agents. They are notorious pests of horses, mules, cattle, hogs, dogs, and other mammals, including humans. Deer flies, which commonly bite humans, are smaller with dark bands across the wings and colored eyes similar to those of horse flies. An attack by a few of these persistent flies can make outdoor work and recreation miserable. 

Deer Fly Identification 

What Do Deer Flies Look Like?

Deer flies are characterized by their distinctive appearance. Adults typically measure between 1/4 to 1/3 inches in length. They possess large, brightly colored eyes—often gold or green—which can appear iridescent. Their bodies are robust, with a dark or sometimes yellowish-brown coloration, and their wings often display dark bands or patterns.

A key distinguishing feature of deer flies compared to other flies is their wing pattern and the antenna structure, which is more elongated and segmented.

Signs of a Deer Fly Infestation

Identifying a deer fly infestation goes beyond noticing a solitary fly. Signs include:

  • Frequent sightings of multiple deer flies, especially in outdoor areas.
  • Observing deer flies aggressively pursuing humans and animals.
  • Finding larvae in moist soil or aquatic environments close to your residence.

 How to Get Rid of Deer Flies?

The best way to get rid of deer flies involves combinining direct control measures with preventive strategies. Start by modifying the environment: drain excess water to eliminate breeding sites and clear dense vegetation where adult flies rest. Utilize mechanical traps that mimic the heat and movement of large animals to effectively capture adult flies. For persistent infestations, consider professional insecticide applications to minimize environmental impact. 

Bug Out’s fly control services can help you implement a comprehensive approach to managing deer flies effectively.

Habitat, Diet, Life Cycle & Bites

 

Where Do Deer Flies Live?

Deer flies and horse flies can be found near aquatic habitats that support larval development. Most deer flies and horse flies are found in brushy or low-lying pasture areas near creeks, streams, or tanks that provide damp soils in which the immature stages develop. They prefer areas that offer abundant vegetation and a suitable breeding ground for laying eggs. 

While they don’t typically enter buildings, deer flies can accidentally wander indoors from time to time. Houses or hotels with swimming pools could have more issues with the pest because shiny surfaces and quick movements attract deer flies to people. 

The proximity of these habitats to human activity can lead to increased encounters.

Diet of a Deer Fly

The adult female deer fly feeds on blood, which is necessary for egg development. This diet drives their aggressive behavior towards humans and animals. Males, conversely, primarily feed on nectar and do not bite.

Life Cycle of a Deer Fly

The deer fly life cycle includes four stages: egg, larva, pupa, and adult. Females lay eggs on vegetation overhanging water or directly into moist soil. Once hatched, the larvae develop in aquatic or semi-aquatic environments, feeding on organic matter and small invertebrates. The transition from larvae to adults can take a year, with adults emerging in late spring to early summer.

Deer Fly Bites

Female deer flies and horse flies can and will bite people, and the painful bites may occur on any part of the body. Deer fly bites can be painful due to their cutting and lapping method of feeding.The bite often results in visible bleeding wounds and general first aid-type skin creams may help to relieve the pain from bites. In rare instances, there may be allergic reactions involving hives and wheezing. 

Are Deer Flies Dangerous?

Deer flies pose a dual threat: the immediate concern of painful bites and the potential for disease transmission. There is evidence that a deer fly in the western U.S. is involved in the transmission of a bacterium that causes the disease tularemia, which is known as deer fly fever and rabbit fever. These flies are significant livestock pests with their painful and persistent biting behavior.

Deer Fly Prevention Tips

Preventative measures are crucial in minimizing the risk of deer fly bites and infestations.

  • Personal Protection: When spending time in areas where deer flies are active, wearing long sleeves, pants, and hats can provide a physical barrier against bites. Insect repellent containing DEET or picaridin can also be effective.
  • Property Maintenance: Regular maintenance of your property to eliminate standing water and reduce excessive vegetation can deter deer flies from breeding and living nearby.
  • Timing Outdoor Activities: Avoid outdoor activities during peak deer fly activity times, usually on warm, sunny days when there is little wind.

FAQs

 

What Does A Deer Fly Bite Look Like

A deer fly bite typically appears as a red, raised bump that can be very itchy and painful. You might also notice a small, clear blister in the center. Swelling around the bite area is common. If you experience severe reactions or signs of infection, seeking professional medical advice is best.

When Do Deer Flies Come Out

Deer flies come out and are most active during the warmer months, typically from late spring to early summer. They thrive in humid and wooded areas and often emerge during the day when temperatures rise. To avoid bites, it’s best to cover up and use insect repellent outdoors during these peak periods.