Yellow Flies in Central Arkansas
A common mistake when seeing a yellow fly is assuming it is a deer or horse fly. Regardless of the type of fly, the yellow fly still produces a painful bite. These flies are common in the south-eastern region of the United States and can be found in states ranging from Texas and Florida to New Jersey. The female fly is capable of biting, while the male fly is mainly a nectar and pollen feeder. During the heat of summer and early fall, yellow flies are encountered most.
Yellow Fly Habitat
Adult yellow flies are strong fliers and are often found near the larval habitat, but they may move considerable distances to find a blood meal. Yellow flies congregate in shaded, humid areas on the edges of forests, rivers, and creeks, avoiding large, open, sunny areas. Larvae are aquatic or semi-aquatic and have been found in deeply shaded areas in root mats of trees, always beneath the water surface. Yellow flies prefer warm and humid weather conditions and are most active during the daytime just before twilight. Domestic animals, including dogs, are attacked readily, although the fly’s preference for shade makes it less of a pest to cattle and horses in open pastures.
Yellow Fly Behaviors, Threats, or Dangers
According to The University of Florida, the yellow fly bite is one of the most serious types of fly bites. Similar to the mosquito, the female yellow fly requires a blood meal before they can reproduce. With this requirement, the females are predatory and will vigorously attack humans to achieve this goal. While active throughout the day, they are most active in the evening and on overcast days. The bites from yellow flies are incredibly painful and usually cause large and itchy swellings that can last several days. Infections from the bite are possible and the symptoms include headache, nausea, fever, or swollen lymph nodes. Should this occur, you should seek medical attention.
For more information on yellow flies, contact your local fly exterminator.
