Haematobosca stimulans
This record describes Haematobosca stimulans (species). Recorded family: Muscidae. Recorded order: Diptera.
Identification and Appearance
Around cattle on which they feed, and in farm buildings such as milking parlours etc. April to October peaking in May and August. This fly is associated with cattle where it can be a nuisance by biting the animals to feed on their blood.
Classification
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Around cattle on which they feed, and in farm buildings such as milking parlours etc.
Seasonal Activity
April to October peaking in May and August.
Diet and Behavior
Life History
This fly is associated with cattle where it can be a nuisance by biting the animals to feed on their blood.
Additional species information
Recorded status
It is common and widespread in Britain.
About Flies: the wider group
Order-level background for Diptera, the group containing Haematobosca stimulans. Species-specific details appear above.
Group overview
Diptera includes over 150,000 described species of flies, mosquitoes, and midges. Mosquitoes are the deadliest animal on Earth (CDC). Malaria alone causes ~249 million cases and over 608,000 deaths annually, mostly children under 5 (WHO). Vector-borne diseases account for over 17% of all infectious diseases, causing 700,000+ deaths per year.
Ecological role of the group
Despite their disease impact, flies are critical decomposers and pollinators. Hoverflies alone pollinate hundreds of crop and wildflower species. Flies are also the primary food source for many birds, bats, and fish. Forensic entomology relies heavily on fly species for crime scene analysis.
Economic and practical significance of the group
In the U.S., vector-borne disease cases tripled between 2004-2016, with over 640,000 cases reported in that period (CDC). Tickborne diseases doubled from 22,000 to 48,000 annual reports. Globally, mosquito-borne diseases cost billions in healthcare and lost productivity.
Recorded sources for this group: WHO, CDC, PNAS. Imported estimates may describe particular regions or reporting periods.
Photos of Haematobosca stimulans (7)
Frequently Asked Questions About Haematobosca stimulans
What is Haematobosca stimulans?
Haematobosca stimulans is a species in the family Muscidae, within the order Diptera.
How big is Haematobosca stimulans?
7 mm. A rather plain brown fly.
Where is Haematobosca stimulans found?
Habitat: Around cattle on which they feed, and in farm buildings such as milking parlours etc.
When is Haematobosca stimulans active?
Haematobosca stimulans: seasonal activity - April to October peaking in May and August..
What is the life cycle of a Haematobosca stimulans?
This fly is associated with cattle where it can be a nuisance by biting the animals to feed on their blood.