The Family Hippoboscidae, commonly known as louse flies, is a group of winged insects found throughout the world. These parasitic insects feed on the blood of mammals or birds, and are often associated with livestock such as sheep and cattle. Other synonyms for the Family Hippoboscidae include the dipings or hippoboscids, and the common name keds. These insects are distinguished from other flies by their flattened body shape and their cryptic coloration, which allows them to blend in with their host's hair or feathers. While they are considered pests, some species of louse flies have been used for biological control of pest insects in crops.