Face Fly - Musca autumnalis

Averaging about 7 - 8 mm long with 4 dark stripes on the thorax. The male has an orange and black patterned abdomen whereas in the female this is a grey pattern.

This species gets its common name from its habit of landing on the faces of cattle where they feed on tears, sweat and blood (from the bites of other flies). However the adults also feed on nectar and can also be found on flowers, or just sunning on posts and fences.

March to October peaking in April and May.

They breed in cattle dung where the larvae feed.

Widespread and common in England and Wales.

Common in Leicestershire and Rutland