Soldier Flies
What are they?
Soldier flies are chunky flies with relatively large eyes and prominent antennae. They are rather sluggish insects, most of which appear to be wasp mimics. Adults can usually be found either around flowers or around rotting vegetation (such as manure heaps); they also sometimes come to light after dark. Often found near water as the larvae of a number of species are aquatic.
Identification
Many of the commoner species of this group can be identified relatively easily. Take careful note of head and leg color and detail, posture (position of the wings) and size.
Black Soldier Fly Hermetia illucens
A largely black species (including the wings) with white on the legs. Larvae feed on rotting vegetation.
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Green Soldier Fly Odontomyia cincta
A bright apple green species which is uncommon but most likely to be found nectaring at flowers. Larvae are aquatic.
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