Every year, in late May and early June I see Golden-backed Snipe Flies (Chrysopilus thoracicus) mating. These snipe flies are quite attractive with their golden thorax. Very little is known about them, even what they eat. Or whether the adults eat anything at all.

The males have large eyes which meet, while the females have smaller eyes with a space between them. Also the males have a slim abdomen, females are more robust. The Golden-backed Snipe Fly measures in at about one-half inch. Unlike some other flies, these are not pests.