Black flies, which number about 100 species in Canada, occur in varying abundance in all parts of the country. Adult females feed on blood, causing irritation and discomfort to humans, domestic...
Description
Black flies, which number about 100 species in Canada, occur in varying abundance in all parts of the country. Adult females feed on blood, causing irritation and discomfort to humans, domestic and wild mammals and birds. Apart from the annoyance and discomfort, black flies cause economic losses through reduced beef and milk production, reduced efficiency of agricultural and industrial workers, and spread of diseases. In Canada, black flies transmit blood-borne parasites to turkeys, geese, and ducks. Naive cattle (not previously exposed) have died following a heavy attack by black flies in Alberta.