Lovebugs

Description:

is a member of the family of march flies. During and after mating, adult pairs remain coupled, even in flight, for up to several days.The larvae (maggots) feed on partially decayed vegetation in the landscape and, in this respect, are beneficial. Adults feed only on nectar during their brief lifespan.The spring flight occurs during late April and May, the summer during late August and September. In south Florida, a third (but smaller) flight can occur in December. Also known as the honeymoon fly, kissingbug, or double-headedbug.

Habitat:

Lovebug adults are attracted to light-colored surfaces, especially if they are freshly painted, but the adults can congregate almost anywhere by reacting to the effects of sunlight on automobile fumes, asphalt, and other products.

Notes:

Status: Semi-annual pest. This species' reputation as a public nuisance is due to its slightly acidic body chemistry ( affecting automobile windshields, hoods, and radiator grills when the vehicles travel at high speeds) The remains become dried and extremely difficult to remove. Research showed that migration explained the introduction of the lovebug into Florida and other southeastern states, contrary to the urban myth that the University of Florida created them by manipulating DNA to control mosquito.