Knowledge Base

'Lovebugs' are small black flies with red thoraxes. Males are 1/4 inch, and females are 1/3 inch in length. These flies are members of the family Bibionidae and are known as March flies.  The average life span for adult Lovebugs are only two (2) - three (3) days. 

Two (2) flights of Lovebugs occur each year. The spring flight occurs during May. A second flight occurs during September.  Flights extend over periods of four (4) to five (5) weeks.

Adult Lovebugs are harmless and do not sting or bite.

 They feed on the nectar of various plants, especially sweet clover, goldenrod, and Brazilian pepper. Usually, Lovebug flights are restricted to daylight hours and temperatures above 68°F.  At night Lovebugs rest on low growing vegetation.

There are several things that can be done to lessen the problem facing motorists. By traveling at night motorists can avoid the insects; Lovebugs reach peak activity at 10:00am and stop flying at dusk.

A number of insecticides have been evaluated for effectiveness in controlling Lovebug larvae and adults. Most of them kill Lovebugs but are impractical because high populations of the insects occur over vast areas of the state. A vacuum cleaner can be used to remove adults from confined areas, such as in buildings and vehicles.

Additional information click: Lovebugs in Florida or Living with Lovebugs