STABLE FLY

(Stomoxys calcitrans), a vicious bloodsucking fly of the family Muscidae, sometimes placed in a separate family Stomyxyidae (order Diptera). Though usually found in open sunny areas, the stable fly may enter a house during bad weather. Often known as a biting housefly, it may transmit anthrax and other animal diseases. The female must feed on blood before she can lay her eggs in rotting or fermenting straw. The life cycle requires about three weeks. The stable fly is best controlled by the elimination of breeding areas.