Is Ornithoctona laticornis (Diptera: Hippoboscidae) expanding its range from Africa into Europe? First confirmed record in Romania.

The bird louse fly Ornithoctona laticornis (Diptera: Hippoboscidae), previously known only from Africa, has recently been recorded in Europe (Hungary) for the first time, raising questions about its potential range expansion. In this study, we document the first record of O. laticornis from the Syrian Woodpecker (Dendrocopos syriacus) in 2022 and another from the Great Spotted Woodpecker (Dendrocopos major) in 2023, both in Romania. Morphological description and molecular analysis of the mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit 1 gene confirmed the species identity. The main morphological criteria for the identification of O. laticornis were used in the updated key for the European genera of Hippoboscidae. The recurring presence of O. laticornis in resident European birds suggests either overwintering survival or multiple introductions via migratory hosts. Given the ability of hippoboscid flies to act as vectors of pathogens, this discovery underscores the importance of continued surveillance of avian ectoparasites in Europe. Further studies are needed to assess the distribution of the species, its genetic diversity, host range, and its potential role as a vector.