Overwintering of the stable fly (Diptera: Muscidae) in southeastern Nebraska

Adult stable flies, Stomoxys calcitrans (L.), were monitored during three winters at two, four, and 13 locations with Alsynite fiberglass traps and by examination of the interiors of buildings. No stable flies were found inside buildings during the winter. Adult stable flies were consistently caught on Alsynite traps at one location during two winters and at two other locations during one winter. Distribution and physiological age of these flies indicate that they emerged from pupae that had developed at or near the location where they were captured. Potential breeding sites were examined. A few third instars were found in silage in midwinter, but silage should not be considered a major source for overwintering stable flies.