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Entomophthora muscae
A white fuzzy fungus that feeds off the soft body parts of houseflies.
Rural back yard.
From Wikipedia: Outbreaks of infection with Entomophthora muscae tend to occur in the spring and autumn. The fungus is found in most temperate regions and sporulation usually takes place in cool, humid conditions in areas where flies congregate and rest. In houses, the corpses of flies are frequently seen attached to windows or window frames, a place where other flies may easily become infected. In the open, they may be seen attached to the underneath of leaves, on fences and walls, in agricultural buildings and poultry house.
5 Comments
Eeeewww. Great spotting!
Wow, I haven't seen this fungus. Cool spotting!
Thanks Leuba! It is not a way I would want to go!
The behavior of the fly totally changes when they get infected. The fly becomes lethargic and usually perches on the underside of a leaf. Eventually the fungus overcomes it and the fly dies in place. I have been seeing an increased amount of these for the past 2 years.
Sounds awful but a very interesting spotting, Lisa. Thanks !