Deer flies (Chrysops spp.) are insects of the Tabanidae family that can be pests of cattle, horses, and humans.

Deer flies are similar to horse flies, being smaller, having colored eyes, and with dark bands across their wings. While female deer flies feed on blood, males instead collect pollen. When feeding, females use their mandibles and maxillae to make a painful cross-shaped incision. They are vectors of Tularemia and loa loa filariasis.

See also

• Horsefly

References

• University of Florida

Flies