Flutter flies

Definition

Small to medium-sized true flies (Diptera) of the family Pallopteridae, characterized by their distinctive habit of hovering with a trembling or fluttering wing motion, often near vegetation. Adults are typically found in wooded or shrubby habitats and have a characteristic wing posture with the forewings held at a pronounced angle.

Etymology

From the descriptive common name referring to the family's characteristic hovering flight behavior with rapid, trembling wing movements.

Example

Palloptera saltatrix, a common European flutter fly, performs its characteristic hovering display near hawthorn hedgerows, with wings vibrating rapidly while the body remains nearly stationary.

Synonyms

• Pallopteridae
• trembling-winged flies

Related Terms

• Diptera
• hovering flight
• wing posture
• Brachycera
• cyclorrhaphan flies
• display behavior

Usage Notes

The common name 'flutter flies' refers specifically to the family Pallopteridae and should not be confused with hoverflies (Syrphidae), which also hover but belong to a different family. The fluttering behavior is diagnostic for this group. The family is relatively small and understudied compared to other dipteran families.