Dark Giant Horsefly

The Dark Giant Horsefly is one of the largest horseflies in the UK, with females capable of delivering a painful bite as they feed on blood. Males, by contrast, feed on nectar and are harmless.

In the New Forest, they are typically found in open heathland, grassland and around Commoners’ livestock during the summer months.

Their presence is closely linked to grazing animals, which provide the blood meals females need to reproduce.

Despite their intimidating size, they are an important part of the Forest ecosystem, serving as prey for birds and other predators.