March flies

Pronunciation
/MARCH flyz/
Category
Taxonomy
Singular
March fly
Plural
March flies

Definition

for flies of the (order ), known for their synchronized spring , nectar-feeding habits, and conspicuous mating swarms. The name reflects their typical appearance in temperate regions during March and April, though local emergence times vary with latitude and weather.

Etymology

From the month March, when typically emerge in temperate northern hemisphere regions, plus 'flies' ().

Example

In the southeastern United States, swarms of March flies (Bibio spp.) emerge after winter rains, forming dense mating that can obscure windshields and attract insectivorous birds.

Synonyms

  • love bugs
  • honeymoon flies

Related Terms

Usage Notes

Often used loosely for any early-spring flies, but properly restricted to . 'Love ' and 'honeymoon flies' specifically reference the frequent observation of paired (copulating) . Not to be confused with (), sometimes colloquially called 'March flies' in Australia.