Although many urban residents are woefully familiar with flies (Order: Diptera), I am willing to bet not many know about the Peacock Fly (Callopistromyia annulipes). A native of North America, this diminutive fly stands out from the rest of its kin due to its rather peculiar behavior, seen below!
This otherwise cryptically-colored fly uses its reflective wings as a mating display, raising them up and down repeatedly to woo mates, much like their namesake bird. However, in recent years scientists have witnessed this species spreading into Europe, with social media playing an important role in their detection according to Kasalo et al. 2021.
Photo/video credits: Gaia Rueda Moreno
4th year Undergraduate at NYU
Biology (ecology concentration) and Environmental studies Double Major
Wildlife Photographer
Biology (ecology concentration) and Environmental studies Double Major
Wildlife Photographer
Latest posts by Gaia (see all)
- Student Media Highlight: Life in the City mini-documentary - January 16, 2024
- Urban Observations: Northern Cardinal eating a Spotted Lanternfly? - October 12, 2023
- Urban Observation: Peacock Fly - September 27, 2023
Leave a Reply