Horse fly development sites are freshwater and saltwater marshes and streams, moist forest soils and even moist decomposing wood. Females usually deposit egg masses on wet soil or vegetation that overhangs water. Larvae are active in moist or wet organic matter and look similar to house fly maggots.

Where do horse flies live at night?

Horse flies do not only prefer the outdoors (especially near pools of water, like mosquitoes). They also prefer sunlight, are most prevalent in the summer months, and tend to avoid dark, shady areas. Horse flies do not come out at night.

Where do horse flies live?

Habitat. Horse flies are typically woodland or forest dwellers. Species usually feed during full daylight and are most evident on windless, hot, sunny days. In general, larvae develop in wet soil close to bodies of water.