Hilltop Aggregation and Mating Behavior by Gasterophilus Intestinalis (Diptera: Gasterophilidae)1

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Abstract
Hilltop aggregation and mating by the horse bot fly, Gasterophilus intestinalis, was studied at 2 locations in western North America. Male flies arrived at sites on clement days when air temperature surpassed 19 °C; females arrived later. Male activity consisted of sustained hovering and aggressive pursuit of passing objects. Hovering males were attracted to the high point on the hilltop including artificial high points. Dispersion of males was clumped at prominent knolls or taller vegetation on the hilltop. Density of males at each knoll was established by aggressive hovering and reached a maximum of 10 flies. Mark-recapture data indicate a short 1-day life span for aggregated males that requires alternative mating patterns: hilltop aggregation or para host mating. The advantages and significance of these alternatives are discussed.

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