Gold-Backed Snipe Fly (Chrysopilus thoracicus)
Detailing the physical features, habits, territorial reach and other identifying qualities of the Gold-Backed Snipe Fly.
Updated: 8/21/2015; Authored By Staff Writer; Content ©www.InsectIdentification.org
Gold-Backed Snipe Fly
A bright gold spot on the thorax of the Gold-Backed Snipe Fly draws immediate attention to this big fly.
Not much is known about the Gold-Backed Snipe Fly. It is a member of the Snipe Fly family, which are large flies usually found in wooded areas. The larvae of this species have been seen on rotting wood, though little is known about their life cycle.
It has a look of a wasp and is thought to be a predatory insect. Females have more robust bodies and space between their eyes. Males have larger eyes that are close together and wings that are smokey along the outer edges. Both genders are black with five shiny, metallic bands of golden hairs on the abdomen and a metallic gold spot on the near the head.
