What's had me for lunch?

[digannio]

I wonder if anyone could help. This week I went for a long afternoon walk in Hamsterley Forest in County Durham and noticed several times a large dark coloured fly landing on my legs and arms. On a couple of occasions there was a mild sensation that it was having a munch but not very painful. These things were quite persistent and only flew off with a fairly vigorous swat. The following day I had the tell-tale red, itchy area in about four or five places, a bit like the reaction to a mosquito bite. Does anyone know what these are likely to be... possibly horse flies?? Altho I did think their bites were a bit more severe. And if anyone can give me a likely ID, what would be best to keep them at bay on future visits? I don't fancy being on the lunch menu next time!

[aeshna5]

They do sound like a species of horse fly- look at images of Tabanus + Chrysop species in our Gallery to see if these resemble your diners!

[digannio]

Thanks for that... got it in one after looking at the pics. I reckon they must have had half a legful of blood but I'll be armed next time... and it won't be with a camera!