Horsefly bites to SOAR as UK heatwave sparks invasion of biting insects
Sizzling temperatures are set to bring a swarm of the bugs to Britain with a boom similar to those found in Mediterranean countries
HORSEFLY bites are set to soar as a heatwave sparks an invasion of the painful biting insects.
Sizzling temperatures are set to bring a swarm of the bugs to Britain with a boom similar to those found in Mediterranean countries.
The flies are known for targeting horses but can also chomp down on to humans.
Horsefly bites can be extremely painful, leaving large swollen sores full of pus on the skin.
They can take a while to heal and other symptoms include a large rash, dizziness, weakness, wheezing and swelling.
Conservationists claim horsefly numbers are on the rise this summer.
Ben Keywood, of the Sheffield and Rotherham Wildlife Trust, told MailOnline:"This year Britain is seeing insect populations more like what you'd expect to see in a Mediterranean country.
“Unfortunately this means we have to put up with the less popular ones as well."
Horseflies like warm weather and normally appear in June and July.
The bugs are often found around ponds, pools, woodlands, grass and livestock.
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Some insect repellents will help keep the horseflies at bay and it's a good idea to protect yourself if you're going into rural areas.
Light coloured clothing will also make you less of a target for the flies, which are attracted to dark, moving objects.
The flies don't normally head into dark areas - so you will be better protected in the shade.
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