[2] Sarcophaga crassipalpis conforms to the basic bilateral symmetry body plan for arthropods and insects by possessing jointed-appendages, a sclerotized external cuticle, and an internal muscular system that functions as levers for movement.

Beneath the claws is a fleshy, glandular adhesive pad called a pulvillus, which is used on smooth surfaces.

Posterior to the wings is a small pair of knob-like structures (called halteres), which function as organs of balance.

[5] Like other dipterans, S. crassipalpis reproduces utilizing complete metamorphosis, i.e. the life cycle consists of the following stages: egg, larva (called a maggot), pupa, and adult.

Sarcophaga crassipalpis enters an overwintering pupal diapause in response to cues of a short day-length received during late embryonic and early larval life.