Calliphora vomitoria

Bluebottle

Calliphora vomitoria, Bluebottle, is a large fly. The adults are nectar feeders and therefore pollinators. The eggs are laid on animal remains and foodstuffs such as meat. As the eggs hatch, the larvae (maggots) have a ready made food supply. In common with other Diptera (two winged flies) the much reduced hind-wings, called halteres, serve as gyroscopic structures, aiding balance. Propulsion is provided by the much larger fore-wings.