Community identification
Bat fly (likely a streblid bat fly)
Uncertain from image; likely *Trichobius* species
- Order & Family
- Diptera (true flies), Streblidae
- Size
- Typically 2–5 mm long; wings, when present, may span roughly 5–10 mm.
Natural Habitat
Ectoparasitic on bats, especially in caves, roosts, hollow trees, and buildings containing bat colonies.
Diet & Feeding
Feeds on the blood of bats. Adults remain on the host and use piercing mouthparts to obtain blood meals.
Behavior Patterns
Highly specialized, flattened flies that cling to fur; many species are wingless or have reduced wings, while winged forms fly between bats or roost sites. They spend nearly their entire lives associated with a bat host.
Risks & Benefits
Usually harmless to people and do not establish household infestations, though they may cause irritation to bats. They are ecologically specialized parasites and can serve as indicators of healthy bat populations.