Blandford Flies are water babies. They hatch near fast-flowing rivers and streams, mainly in the UK. If you’ve been walking along a cute riverbank, congratulations: you just walked into their canteen.
They’re also angry little overachievers. They only bite for a few weeks in late spring and early summer. They know they have a short window, so they go for gold. No small talk. Just pain.
And here’s the kicker: they chase you. Unlike a normal fly that buzzes off, these guys will follow you for meters. It’s personal. You interrupted their breakfast, and they want revenge.
The Aftermath (Or: Welcome to the Club)
Once you’re bitten, the party lasts for days. Sometimes weeks. The swelling peaks around 24 to 48 hours. During that time, you might wonder if your arm is actually going to detach.
Some people get a fever. Others feel genuinely ill. It’s not just a bite; it’s a full biological protest. Your immune system is holding a neighborhood meeting and everyone is invited.
The worst part? The scar. Even after the swelling goes down, you’re left with a dark, stubborn mark. It’s a little badge of honor that says, “I survived the river path of doom.”
NHS: Swarms Of Dangerous Blandford Flies To Strike The UK
