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Hawthorn fly

Hawthorn fly

Bibio marci

A species of March flies, Also known as St. Mark's fly, March fly

Easily identifiable by its long hindlegs that trail behind its slender body, the hawthorn fly is most active in the spring. It is often found flying low over hedges and bushes in meadows and gardens. In the spring, the insect can hatch in the thousands, but the swarm is non-biting and not harmful to humans. A breeze can cause the insects to land in the water, where they become prey for fish like trout.

General Info About Hawthorn fly
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Attributes of Hawthorn fly
Colors
Black
Habitat
woodland edge; hedge; grassland; wetland
Adult Food Sources
Nectar from flowers, sap from plants, pollen, honeydew, juices from decaying fruit
Larva Food Source
Decaying plant material, roots, compost, decomposing organic matter, soil rich in organic content
Biting/stinging
Not reported
Allergy-causing
Not reported
Defensive attack
Not reported
Venomous
Not reported
Non-poisonous
The Hawthorn fly is non-toxic and generally doesn't pose a risk to human health. No need for excessive worry.
Borer
Not reported
Biting animal or pet
Not reported
Mouthparts Type
Sponging mouthparts
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Appearance of Hawthorn fly
Hawthorn fly is a small insect with a lacquered black body and black hairs. The wings are transparent and membranous, black.
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How to Identify Hawthorn fly?

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Life Cycle of Hawthorn fly
Egg At this initial stage, the eggs of hawthorn fly are typically laid in soil and are small, oval, and barely visible. The egg's color can vary, but it generally blends with the environment to avoid predation. Development within the egg is largely unseen, leading to the next life stage.
Larva After hatching, hawthorn fly larvae are worm-like and lack true legs. They are equipped for feeding and growth, undergoing several molts. Their coloration is generally subdued, allowing them to blend with their surroundings. Larvae prioritize feeding to accumulate energy for the later pupal stage and eventual metamorphosis.
Pupal Hawthorn fly enters a non-feeding pupal stage encased in a cocoon within the soil. During this stage, they undergo a dramatic transformation. The pupa is generally immobile and discreet; it is here where the larval form reorganizes into the complex structures of the adult, including wings.
Adult Emerging from the pupa, the adult hawthorn fly’s development is marked by the presence of wings and functional reproductive organs. The body is fully formed and hardened, and the adult is mobile, focusing on reproduction. Coloration becomes more pronounced, aiding in species-specific identification and mating.
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Adult Size of Hawthorn fly
1.2 - 1.4 cm
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Predators of Hawthorn fly Larvae
Birds, rodents, beetles, centipedes
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Predators of Adult Hawthorn fly
Birds, spiders, insectivorous plants, rodents
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Interesting Facts About Hawthorn fly
Despite its unassuming appearance, hawthorn fly showcases a unique nuptial flight ritual, where swarms dance in the air to attract mates, resembling an orchestrated natural ballet.
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Scientific Classification of Hawthorn fly
Tips for Finding Hawthorn fly
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Youth Habitat of Hawthorn fly
Forests and Woodlands, Grasslands and Prairies, Rotting and Decaying Matter
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Habitat Preferences of Hawthorn fly Through Different Life Stages
During its larval stage, hawthorn fly is generally found in soil rich in organic matter or compost where they feed on decaying plant materials. As pupae, hawthorn fly transitions within the same habitat, just below the soil surface. For observing their adult stage, one should look around flowering plants, especially in grassy areas, as hawthorn fly often swarm in these spots, particularly in the spring. To locate these insects, one could gently sift through topsoil and decaying vegetation for larvae and pupae, or observe above grasslands for adult swarms.
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When is the Best Time to Observe Hawthorn fly
The most suitable time to find hawthorn fly is during daylight hours, especially when the temperature is mild and the sun is out, which encourages their activity.
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What is the Best Weather to Observe Hawthorn fly
Sunny and warm weather with little to no wind is the ideal condition for finding hawthorn fly, as these conditions are favourable for their flight and feeding activities.
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How and Where Can You Find Hawthorn fly at Different Life Stages
Larva Hawthorn fly larvae are usually found underground or in decaying organic matter. To locate them, gently dig into soil or compost near plants without disturbing the roots.
Pupal Hawthorn fly pupae are commonly located beneath the soil surface or within decomposing materials. Search for them by carefully sifting through the top layer of soil or compost.
Adult Adult hawthorn fly are often seen in swarms during mating periods and can be found near flowers. Look for them hovering or resting on vegetation in gardens or meadows.
Are Hawthorn fly harmful?
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