Tabanidae (family)

Unidentified march or horse fly at Surf Beach, NSW

Tabanidae (family) at Surf Beach, NSW - 25 Jan 2024 08:56 AM
Tabanidae (family) at Surf Beach, NSW - 25 Jan 2024 08:56 AM
Tabanidae (family) at Surf Beach, NSW - 25 Jan 2024 08:56 AM
Tabanidae (family) at Surf Beach, NSW - 25 Jan 2024 08:56 AM
Tabanidae (family) at Surf Beach, NSW - 25 Jan 2024 08:56 AM
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Identification history

Tabanidae (family) 5 Feb 2025 MichaelMulvaney

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1 comment

GrahamH wrote:
   2 Feb 2024
This specimen appears to be a Tabinidae, commonly called a March fly. These species 'bite' people with a painful impact as they go in search of a blood meal. Similar body colouration to Calliphoridae, but the green eyes usually separates Tabinids from Calliphorids which usually have red eyes. Also, Calliphorids are carrion flies which have siphon-like mouthparts, and are noisy in flight. Tabinids are mostly quiet in flight, which is why the bite is usually the first indication of their presence.

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Location information

Sighting information

Additional information

  • 12mm to 25mm Animal size
  • False Insect on a flower

Species information

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