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Common Picture-Winged Fly

Common Picture-Winged Fly

Delphinia picta

A species of Delphinia, Also known as Painted compost fly

The common Picture-Winged Fly (Delphinia picta) has beautiful transparent wings that look like stain glass paintings, and its face looks like it's wearing a gas mask. It feasts almost solely on rotting vegetation. When it regurgitates its food, it looks like it's blowing a tiny bubble with its mouth.

General Info About Common Picture-Winged Fly
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Attributes of Common Picture-Winged Fly
Colors
Brown
Black
Habitat
landfill; forest; swamp; field
Adult Food Sources
Nectar, plant exudates, decaying fruits, honeydew, pollens
Larva Food Source
Leaves, plant stems, roots, decaying organic matter, fruits
Biting/stinging
Not reported
Allergy-causing
Not reported
Defensive attack
Not reported
Venomous
Not reported
Non-poisonous
The Common Picture-Winged Fly is non-toxic and generally doesn't pose a risk to human health. No need for excessive worry.
Borer
Not reported
Pollinator
Not reported
Pest-Eating Predatory
Not reported
Phytophagous
Not reported
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Species Status of Common Picture-Winged Fly
It is found in the United States on the East Coast and in the Midwest from Florida to Maine across to Kansas through Minnesota but also can be found in Mexico and El Salvador.
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Distribution Area of Common Picture-Winged Fly
Maine, Minnesota, Kansas, Florida
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Appearance of Common Picture-Winged Fly
The best way to identify the species is by the distinct pattern on its wings, which are shiny and dark brown with a hyaline background. Its body is about 7 mm long with a black abdomen and a light brown head, thorax, and legs. The ovipositor averages 1.3 mm long with two dorsal and one ventral prominent pairs of setae, as well as many short setae on both sides. The tip of the ovipositor also has a slight bend downward.
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How to Identify Common Picture-Winged Fly?

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Life Cycle of Common Picture-Winged Fly
Egg The eggs of common Picture-Winged Fly are typically oval, and their color may vary. Eggs are laid in suitable habitats where the larvae can find immediate nutrition upon hatching.
Larva When hatched, the larvae of common Picture-Winged Fly are legless and maggot-like. They grow rapidly, molting several times. Larvae are usually worm-like, with a soft, pliable body and no wings.
Pupal As pupae, common Picture-Winged Fly undergoes transformation within a pupal case. The body is inactive externally but busy internally as tissues reorganize. Pupation is a non-feeding stage where they don't move.
Adult Emerging from the pupa, the adult common Picture-Winged 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.
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Adult Size of Common Picture-Winged Fly
5 - 9 mm
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Predators of Common Picture-Winged Fly Larvae
Frogs, toads, birds, jumping spiders, mantises, geckos, hoverflies, dragonflies
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Predators of Adult Common Picture-Winged Fly
Birds, rodents, spiders, mantises, lizards
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Scientific Classification of Common Picture-Winged Fly
Tips for Finding Common Picture-Winged Fly
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How Can You Attract Common Picture-Winged Fly
Rotting fruit, vegetable matter, or other organic decomposing material can serve as an effective trap food for attracting common Picture-Winged Fly.
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Habitat Preferences of Common Picture-Winged Fly Through Different Life Stages
The eggs of common Picture-Winged Fly are typically laid on decaying organic matter, such as compost or rotting fruits. Larvae, also known as maggots, are often found in these same environments where they feed and grow. After pupation, emerging adults tend to be found near or on vegetation, as they require a source of nectar or similar nutrients. To find these insects at various stages, one would inspect compost piles or decaying vegetation for eggs and larvae, while adults might be discovered on flowers or leaves in nearby gardens or meadows.
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When is the Best Time to Observe Common Picture-Winged Fly
The most appropriate time to find adults of common Picture-Winged Fly is during warm days, often in the late spring to early fall when temperatures are between 70-85°F (21-29°C).
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What is the Best Weather to Observe Common Picture-Winged Fly
Adult common Picture-Winged Fly is typically active on sunny or overcast days with minimal wind, as strong winds can hamper their flight.
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How and Where Can You Find Common Picture-Winged Fly at Different Life Stages
Egg Eggs of common Picture-Winged Fly are very small and laid in batches on decomposing organic matter. Finding eggs requires careful examination of potential food sources or breeding sites using a magnifying glass.
Larva Larvae of common Picture-Winged Fly can be found in decaying plant material such as compost piles or rotting logs. Searching for larvae involves gently breaking apart these materials and looking for the small, maggot-like creatures.
Pupal Pupae of common Picture-Winged Fly are often located within the soil or in a thin cocoon in the same environment where the larvae developed. To find the pupae, sift through the soil or leaf litter near decomposing organic matter.
Adult Common Picture-Winged Fly adults are generally found near sources of food or for potential mates. They can often be seen resting on the leaves of plants, flying near rotting fruit, or visiting flowers. Approach slowly to observe or capture them without causing them to fly away.
Are Common Picture-Winged Fly harmful?
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Harmful Effects of Common Picture-Winged Fly
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Nuisance Pests

Adult common Picture-Winged Fly may cause a nuisance from mild to severe levels by swarming in numbers, especially near food or waste. Their persistent presence and flying habits in human environments can be distressing and disruptive to daily life.

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Agricultural Pests

Larvae of common Picture-Winged Fly primarily damage corn by chewing on leaves and stems, leading to weakened plants. A mild infestation causes some defoliation, while a severe one can significantly reduce yields and affect corn quality, potentially impacting food supply and market prices.

More Effects of Common Picture-Winged Fly

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