"Bull fly" refers to a type of insect belonging to the Tabanidae family, commonly known as horseflies. These flies are recognized for their stout body structure, large compound eyes, and strong mouthparts used for piercing and sucking blood from their hosts. They are called "bull flies" due to their tendency to bite and pester livestock animals, including bulls, cows, horses, and other domesticated animals.
The characteristic features of bull flies include their robust size, typically ranging from 1 to 2 centimeters in length, and their dark coloring, which helps them blend into their surroundings. They possess transparent wings that are often iridescent and can be very agile fliers. Bull flies are often found in rural areas, close to open pastures, marshy regions, and water bodies, as these areas provide suitable habitats for them to thrive.
These flies feed on the blood of their hosts, and both male and female bull flies rely on this protein-rich diet. Their bites can cause significant discomfort and irritation to animals, leading to potential economic losses in livestock farming. For humans, a bull fly bite can be painful and may cause local allergic reactions.
Bull flies are also known as aggressive biters, targeting any exposed skin to access the blood vessels beneath. They are most active during the day, especially during warm weather conditions, and are attracted to hosts by visual cues, warmth, and odors emitted by animals.
Control measures for bull flies include the use of insecticides, fly repellents, and physical barriers, such as screens or protective clothing, to reduce their access to hosts.
