Fly's flying abilities

[Catso]

(Another pointless fly question)

How come flies are just so good at flying in formation with something? Have you noticed that frequently, when a fly is hassling you, if you move, the fly can keep perfect position in relation to you. I often notice this when out walking; a fly can maintain its 'lock' on you when it's in front, behind, at the side. It's amazing - like they're fastened to you with string. Do they do it by pointing and flying in the required direction, or can they fly in any direction, regardless of which way they are pointing?

Can all fly species do this? Only some? How come they are so good at it? It seems complicated thing for a simple bug to achieve.

[whiffey]

Flies ! The cyclist's best friend, not. A fly in the eye or down the throat is horrible.

What are they doing when they hang around in gangs underneath trees ? Why do they fly into my face - don't they look where they are going ?

Is is uncanny though how when you open a can of fizzy they can be there within seconds, amazing sense of smell. Wasps are far worse than flies for 'locking' on to you, and it freaks me out.

[Catso]

I've never seen a wasp do the perfect flying-in-formation thing. They are very persistent in hassling you, if that's what you mean. Maybe they have a smidge more intellience?!