Hybomitra lurida

(Fallén, 1817)

Broad-headed Horse Fly

Hybomitra lurida is a large horse-fly in the Tabanidae, measuring 12–15 millimetres in length. It is distributed across central and northern Europe, Asia, and North America including Canada, Alaska, and portions of the contiguous United States. are active during summer months and are frequently associated with cattle in open landscapes.

Hybomitra lurida by (c) Owen Strickland, some rights reserved (CC BY), uploaded by Owen Strickland. Used under a CC-BY license.Hybomitra lurida by (c) Owen Strickland, some rights reserved (CC BY), uploaded by Owen Strickland. Used under a CC-BY license.Hybomitra lurida by (c) Owen Strickland, some rights reserved (CC BY), uploaded by Owen Strickland. Used under a CC-BY license.

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Hybomitra lurida: //haɪˈbɒmɪtrə ˈlʊrɪdə//

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Identification

Large-bodied fly (12–15 mm) with bare subcallus and yellow spots on abdominal tergites. The combination of size, bare subcallus, and abdominal pattern distinguishes it from other Hybomitra .

Images

Habitat

inhabit open landscapes including forests and mountains, often remaining near cattle. Larval are wetlands, specifically sphagnum bogs.

Distribution

Central and northern Europe, Asia, Canada, Alaska, and portions of the contiguous United States.

Seasonality

active from May through early August in Canada; summer activity period in other regions.

Human Relevance

frequently associate with cattle, suggesting potential significance as livestock pests. Listed as a of special conservation concern in Connecticut.

Similar Taxa

  • Other Hybomitra speciesH. lurida is distinguished by its bare subcallus and specific abdominal pattern of yellow spots on tergites.

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Sources and further reading