Gadflies (Tabanidae) are a group of insects belonging to the order Diptera. Commonly known as "flies" or "fly tigers," they are insects that bite people and animals violently to suck their blood. Gadflies are generally larger, stout-looking and have well-developed mouths adapted for penetrating the skin, and are considered a nuisance pest.
Gadflies live near the flowers of plants, and some species live near water. They mainly feed on the blood of well-known mammals, birds and reptiles and are therefore considered pests, causing considerable distress to domestic and wild animals. They are often considered pests because their bites can cause pain and itching and, in some cases, can spread disease.
Ecologically, gadflies also play a role in ecosystems as a food source, as they are an important food source for some birds and other carnivores.
