Botfly

/ˈbɑtflaɪ/ noun

Definition

A parasitic fly whose larvae burrow into the skin of mammals, including humans, causing painful boil-like infections until they emerge.

Etymology

From Middle English 'bot' meaning a parasitic larva, possibly from Old Norse 'bót,' combined with 'fly'; the term has been used since at least the 14th century to describe this particular parasitic insect.

Kelly Says

Botflies don't directly sting or inject eggs into you—they're sneaky! They lay eggs that hitch a ride on mosquitoes or other insects, which then deliver them to unsuspecting hosts when they land on skin.

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