Flat Fly (or Louse Fly)

Typically found on host animals such as birds or mammals, though often seen in wooded areas or hitchhiking on vehicles and clothing.

Obligate blood feeders; both males and females consume the blood of their specific vertebrate hosts.

They are highly specialized parasites with flattened bodies that allow them to move easily through fur or feathers. Many species lose their wings or are flightless after finding a host.

They can be annoying biters to humans if their primary host is unavailable; while generally not primary vectors for human disease, they can cause skin irritation or secondary infections in hosts.