Hippobosca spp.

Introduction

  • Also known as

Forest flies

  • Only parasitises horses and cattle
  • Only found in the Old World
  • Large numbers found around the perineum and inner thighs


Recognition

  • 1cm long
  • Reddish brown
  • Yellow spots on thorax and abdomen
  • Clear wings
  • Reduced wings with veins crowded towards anterior margins
    • Not a strong flier
  • Forward pointing proboscis which can be retracted into head when not feeding
    • Both males and females suck blood


Life cycle

  • Adults are on the wing between May and October
  • Adults mate on the host
  • Single larvae laid in soil or damp humus
  • Adult flies emerge the following spring


Pathogenesis

  • Irritation and annoyance from bites
  • Mechanical vectors of non-pathogenic Trypanosoma theileri in cattle


Control

  • Topical insecticide application
    • Repellents with residual action