Stilt-legged Fly

Stilt-legged flies are a family of true flies. These slender-bodied flies are harmless, but most species resemble ichneumon or other wasps, or ants. The middle and back pairs of legs are exceptionally long and thin, while the front pair of legs are much shorter. Remember that true flies have short antennae. Members of this group, however, often walk around with the front pair of legs held forward, resembling antennae. In many species, the legs, body, or both are banded with black and yellow or orange. The forelegs, especially, may have markings that draw attention to them. The wings are narrow and in most cases are folded flat along the back. A close look at the eyes shows the characteristic large compound eyes typical of members of the true fly order (Diptera)