Fig. 43. The swift louse fly (left) and the Stenepteryx hirundinis (right). (Hutson).

Louse flies

The louse flies, of the family Hippoboscidae. They are obligate parasites of mammals and birds. They are flattened with leathery skin, and their legs have powerful claws that they use to hang onto their hosts.

The species, which are most frequently found indoors, include the swift louse fly, Craetaerina pallida and the Stenepteryx hirundinis.