True flies are those that belong to the order Diptera and are characterised by having just two wings. In contrast, butterflies, dragonflies, damselflies, caddisflies, stoneflies, mayflies and scorpionflies all have four wings and belong to different insect orders.
Devon is home to a remarkable range of true fly speciesA group of similar organisms that can breed and exchange genes. More, reflecting the county’s size and wide range of habitatsThe natural environment in which an animal, plant or other organism lives. More. Over 3,060 speciesA group of similar organisms that can breed and exchange genes. More have been recorded here, 42% of the British total – and tens more are found every year. As not many people are recording flies, it’s likely that many hundreds of speciesA group of similar organisms that can breed and exchange genes. More are yet to be found or identified in Devon.
Flies matter! They carry out essential roles and so are a vital part of our natural system. They’re a critical source of food for a wide range of speciesA group of similar organisms that can breed and exchange genes. More such as frogs, fish, spiders, bats, birds and even some plants. They’re pollinators and decomposers. And the larvae (maggots) of some speciesA group of similar organisms that can breed and exchange genes. More live in soil where they help improve soil heath by aerating it and breaking down plant material.
True flies are found in all habitatsThe natural environment in which an animal, plant or other organism lives. More across Devon, from gardens to saltmarshes and the wetlands of Dartmoor. Different speciesA group of similar organisms that can breed and exchange genes. More have adapted to live in different habitatsThe natural environment in which an animal, plant or other organism lives. More and they all have different microhabitat needs. However, there are a few critical things that most flies need to survive.
Flowers, sap and fruit
Adult flies generally need a source of sugar from nectar, fruit or sap.
Decaying matter
Larvae generally feed on decaying matter such as dead wood, manure or animal carcasses. Many speciesA group of similar organisms that can breed and exchange genes. More lay their eggs on decaying matter so their larvae have an immediate source of food.
Water
Lots of flies like a moist environment and depend on habitatsThe natural environment in which an animal, plant or other organism lives. More such as wet woodlands, mires and watercourses.
Shelter
Like all speciesA group of similar organisms that can breed and exchange genes. More, flies need sheltered areas where they’re protected from predators and harsh weather.
There’s no systematic national monitoring of flies. However, it’s thought that many speciesA group of similar organisms that can breed and exchange genes. More have significantly declined in abundance and distribution, in line with national trends for insects.
The small but thriving Devon Fly Group carries out surveys and has contributed to the LNRS. They’ve listed xxx speciesA group of similar organisms that can breed and exchange genes. More as Devon SpeciesA group of similar organisms that can breed and exchange genes. More of Conservation Concern. xxx of these are identified as Focus SpeciesA group of similar organisms that can breed and exchange genes. More that need specific actions or attention. In Devon we have a national responsibility for xx flies, which are therefore listed as Devon Special SpeciesLorem ipsum dolor sit amet consectetur adipiscing..