Greenheads, aka Tabanus nigrovittatus or Greenhead Horse Flies, plague coastal Massachusetts through Southern Maine in July. It is fabled they come and go with the full moon, but by mid July it can be said with certainty they will be around to annoy you. Fill out the form below if you’d like to contribute to the report.
The Greenhead Report
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2025 brought in 550+ reports; this tiny project's most successful year. Please keep sharing!
Following the 2026 season, I will be rebuilding this site to accomodate the growing list of locations and for general usability improvements. If you have suggestions for improving the report into 2027 and beyond, don’t hesitate to reach out.
If you’re visiting the beach during greenhead season, try these tips to lessen your exposure:
- Greenheads are attracted to the ocean’s salt, so dry off after swimming
- Visit the beach on breezy days — wind makes it harder for them to fly
- Choose light-colored clothing or wear long sleeves and pants when you can
- Skin-So-Soft bath oil or Tanqueray gin can work as a repellent,
though the latter might just be an excuse to carry an extra nip of gin on you!
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