Fly by light
Question: Why do houseflies circle incessantly below hanging light fittings
regardless of whether the fitting is located centrally or asymmetrically, and
whether the light is on or off?
Answer: Only male houseflies circle incessantly beneath prominent indoor
objects such as hanging light fittings.
The lamp shade serves as a visual landmark which stands out from the
background, whether or not the light is actually switched on.
Male flies establish a lek-type mating assembly as they collect beneath the
ceiling lights. Female houseflies that are aiming to perch on the light fitting
are intercepted by the male lucky…
