Warble fly
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Warble fly is a name given to the genus Hypoderma, large flies which are parasitic on cattle and deer. Other names include "heel flies", "bomb flies", and "gad flies", while their larvae are often called "cattle grubs". Common species of warble fly include Hypoderma lineatum and Hypoderma bovis.
Their larvae cause considerable harm and distress to animals by burrowing deep into their flesh and causing large purulent swellings ("warbles") to develop on the skin when they re-emerge. The hide is rendered valueless by this damage, while the meat through which they have passed is unfit for consumption. Milk yields may also suffer.
Adult warble flies are large, hairy and bee-like; brown, orange or yellow in color.
They are found in all continents of the northern hemisphere, principally between 25 and 60 degrees latitude. They have been eradicated from the United Kingdom[link].
Warblefly is also the name of an Irish punk band.
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