Horse Flies in Florida
Most people think mosquitoes are Florida’s worst insect.
Then they meet a horse fly.
Horse flies are larger, more aggressive, and far easier to spot than many other biting insects. They don’t sneak up on you the way no-see-ums do. Instead, they seem determined to let you know they’re there.
If you’ve spent much time outdoors in Florida, chances are you’ve encountered one.
And if you’ve been bitten by one, you probably remember it.
Looking for information about no-see-ums, sand gnats, mosquitoes, yellow flies, horse flies, and outdoor activities? Browse all articles in our Florida Bug Guide →
My Experience With Horse Flies
While living on St. George Island, Florida, I spent countless hours outdoors.
Walking the dog.
Working on renovation projects.
Mowing.
Gardening.
Simply enjoying life near the water.
Throughout the year we dealt with different insects depending on the season.
No-see-ums were the constant challenge.
Mosquitoes became more noticeable after periods of heavy rain.
Yellow flies had their own season.
And horse flies always seemed capable of making an impression.
Why Horse Flies Feel Different
One thing I’ve always noticed is that horse flies seem more deliberate than other insects.
You often see them before they reach you.
They circle.
They hover.
They investigate.
Sometimes they seem almost curious.
Then suddenly they decide to land.
That’s usually the moment people start swatting.
Life Outdoors Is Worth It
One thing living on Florida’s Gulf Coast taught me is that bugs are simply part of the environment.
You can stay indoors.
Or you can find ways to make outdoor life more enjoyable.
For me, the outdoors always won.
The beaches.
The sunsets.
The wildlife.
The walks.
The fresh air.
Those experiences are worth a little effort.
Looking For Something Better
Like many people, I tried countless bug sprays over the years.
Some worked well.
Some worked less well.
But I never liked the feeling many of them left on my skin.
After applying them, I often felt sticky, uncomfortable, and ready to wash everything off the minute I got back inside.
I wanted something simpler.
Something I would actually use every day.
Creating SGI Naturals
That search eventually led me to begin experimenting with natural ingredients.
After nearly two years of testing and refining, I developed a simple formula made from:
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Grass-fed beef tallow
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Beeswax
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Lavender oil
The result became SGI Naturals Bug Repellent Balm.
It’s the same product I still keep nearby whenever I’m spending time outdoors.
Enjoying Florida’s Outdoors
Whether you’re dealing with horse flies, mosquitoes, yellow flies, no-see-ums, or sand gnats, the goal isn’t perfection.
The goal is enjoying your time outside.
Fishing.
Gardening.
Walking the dog.
Working in the yard.
Sitting on the porch.
Watching the sunset.
That’s why SGI Naturals exists.
Related Reading:
Yellow Flies on St. George Island
Bug Repellent for Fishing, Boating, and Outdoor Activities