A right royal pain

This is the awful forest or New Forest horsefly (ippobosca equina) - a flat fly that is virtually indestructible and absolutely persistent. Identified for me by the wonderful Paul Tout @adriawildlife. Further reading says it’s called the ‘ arse fly’ (16th century Tuscan) - mosca culaia. A dreadful insect that can’t be crushed and that induces panic in animals unfamiliar with it arse-clinging habit and abilities. Mr Tout suggests catching it and removing its wings.

Gives birth to live grubs that immediately pupate. Carries equine diseases and might induce anaphylactic shock in humans although some say it rarely bites. Found widely but often in fragmented populations although no one appears to know why. From the New Forest south although may be spreading north. Also known as the ‘louse fly’.

Rubbing oneself with vegetable can help keep it at bay. Apparently. Reminds me of the bacon fat and diesel remedy for NZ South Island sand fly

I’ve found herbal mosquito sprays have some deterrent effect. And a tea towel over the head held in place with a straw hat. At it worst in the hottest most humid weather. Puts me off having a cooling dip al fresco in the well!
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