Deerfly

/ˈdɪrˌflaɪ/ noun

Definition

A small bloodsucking fly that commonly attacks deer, horses, and humans, causing painful bites.

Etymology

From 'deer' + 'fly'. Named for its preferred prey and common habitat near deer populations.

Kelly Says

Deerflies see in color and are attracted to dark moving objects—humans noticed this and invented the 'deerfly trap,' basically a dark ball on a sticky board.

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