Hanging fly
- Pronunciation
- /HANG-ing fly/
- Category
- Taxonomy
- Singular
- Hanging fly
- Plural
- Hanging flies
Definition
A member of the family Bittacidae, within the order Mecoptera, characterized by their long legs and habit of hanging from vegetation while waiting to catch prey.
Etymology
Derived from the behavior of the insects to hang from plants, using their elongated legs.
Example
A hanging fly was observed capturing a small insect while dangling from a leaf.
Synonyms
- Bittacid
Related Terms
- Mecoptera
- Bittacidae
- Prey capture
- Long legs
Usage Notes
Hanging flies are predatory and can often be seen capturing and feeding on other insects.