Sarcophaga sp.
This can be a dificult fly to accurately identify as it is one of several similar looking species. This is a large fly with an attractive greyish-black and white chequer-patterned abdomen, a greyish-black and white striped thorax, with large red eyes and large padded feet. Length up to 15mm.
Adult females deliver larvae rather than lay eggs onto rotting flesh which they consume rapidly. They also feed on dung.
They are seen throughout the year, but mostly during the summer months. Found in various habitats, including farms and houses, and are often found basking in sunshine or feeding on nectar on flowers. They rarely venture indoors into houses like some other species of fly. Common and widespread throughout.
Photograph of Flesh Fly (Sarcophaga sp.), taken August 2016, rear garden , Staffordshire. © Pete Hillman 2016. Camera used Nikon D7200, with Sigma 105mm macro lens.
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