This fly is approximately 1/2 inch (13 mm) in length. It is all black and shiny with spiky, black bristles on the thorax and abdomen. The wings are clear. The eyes are dark red and the face is gray with 2 rows of tiny, dark speckles. This tachinid was identified by volunteer experts at BugGuide. It is not possible to identify these flies to species from photographs.
This fly is common in this area in summer. Adults can be seen nectaring at flowers.
This fly is in the subfamily Tachininae. The larvae are parasitoids of caterpillars. Many Tachinid females deposit eggs directly on the body of the host. Upon hatching, the larva usually burrows into the host and feeds internally. When mature, it leaves and pupates nearby.
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