Green Jewel Fly
Condylostylus
OrderDiptera
FamilyDolichopodidae
HabitatGardens, woodland edges, and streamsides with broad leaves
SeasonSpring through fall
LocationBentsen-Rio Grande Valley State Park, Mission, Texas, Hidalgo County, Texas
SizeAbout a quarter inch
DietSmaller insects, including aphids and gnats
ConservationNot evaluated; common
CameraNikon D500Lens600mmAperturef/6.3Shutter1/4000ISO5600
This Green Jewel Fly was shining like its namesake at Bentsen-Rio Grande Valley State Park.
About the Green Jewel Fly
The Green Jewel Fly is a long-legged fly that looks like it was dipped in liquid metal, flashing emerald, gold, and blue as it pivots on top of a sunlit leaf. These tiny predators are a gardener's quiet ally, picking off aphids, gnats, and other small insects.
They are also among the most entertaining insects to watch at close range, skating across leaf surfaces in quick bursts and performing little wing-flicking courtship dances.
Photographing one is a test of patience and shutter speed; this metallic gem was caught at Bentsen-Rio Grande Valley State Park in Mission.
Want to see a Green Jewel Fly in the wild?
Join one of my guided birding tours! Fine art prints of my photos are also available.
Join one of my guided birding tours! Fine art prints of my photos are also available.
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