Flies
These insects are members of the order "DIPTERA", with around 8,000 described species in Australia there are many more still awaiting discovery. True flies are easy to recognise as this group only has one pair of wings. Many Fly species are beneficial predators, parasite & efficient pollinators.
Ranging from the common Blowfly, housefly to even the Marchfly. The March's will sting you even if you Don't provoke them. Flies can be annoying when they breed up in large numbers especially during summer time, being a nuisence to people invading BBQ's etc. However (NOT all FLIES) are pests, there a lot more Interesting species of flies around than your average common blowfly.
Crane fly
IMAGE***** COMING SOON!
Color: orange body & abdomen with black tip with long thin legs
Habitat: Suburban, rural gardens, woodlands
Active period of Adults: Spring & Summer
Status: common in NE Victoria
Distribution: not sure about other states in Australia
Lifespan: Adults live for only a short time
Common Brown Robber fly
(Zosteria sp.)
Body length: 25mm
Active period of Adults: Spring & Summer
Habitat: Woodlands, Grasslands, botanical gardens
Status: common in NE Victoria
Distribution: not sure about other states in Australia
Additional notes: Robber flies are a large family in Diptera, also called "Assassin flies" with over 600 species in Australia. One particularly species (Phellus olgae) which is found in drier habitats, has a wingspan of 8 cm, making it the largest fly in Australia. These insects are often seen resting on fences, brick walls, tree trunks, Grasses: such as Wild oates, Phalaris + many more. They are agressive predators able to strike prey on the wing. These magnificent insects hold their prey with their strong powerful legs surrounding its victim, the fly uses neurotoxins & special enzymes which are injected into the insect. Body juices are then sucked out via a sharp straw-like mouthpart, this is called a proboscis. It may sound revolting but every insect have their own unique abilities for survival. If you see one of these flies, leave them alone as they are very good Beneficial Predators.