Flies are a nuisance when buzzing around the home -- especially in large numbers. However, some species of flies also pose a health risk.
In particular, house flies can mechanically transmit a wide range of disease-causing microbes, including those responsible for food poisoning, dysentery, tuberculosis, cholera and parasitic worm infections.
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Flies found in the House
There are thousands of different species of flies but the most common fly problems are caused by:
- House flies – Adults 1/4" - 5/16". Female houseflies lay 400-600 eggs in decaying matter or faeces which develop into maggots or larvae. Attracted to any uncovered food or organic waste.
- Blow fly or Bottle fly – Adults 1/4" - 1/2", usually metallic blue or green but can be black or grey. Significant numbers in a house will often indicate a dead animal (such as a mouse or rat) in the property.
- Cluster fly - Adults 1/4" - 3/8". Cluster flies often take shelter over the winter inside homes (such as in attics) and can occur in very large numbers in the home as they emerge in the spring.
- Fruit fly - Adults 1/10” - 1/5”. Small, chunky flies with large eyes, either red or black in color. Often seen around food, they are a big pest problem for bars and restaurants. These flies cause a high percentage of the insect contamination of fruit products.
- Moth fly - Adults 1/4" - 3/8". Moth flies, can be identified because their body and wings are very hairy, and they have a heart-shaped appearance. They live in the gelatinous material found in drains which is their preferred breeding habitat. Usually a bigger pest problem for businesses.
- Phorid fly - Adults 1/6" - 1/8". Phorid flies, can be identified because of their humpbacked appearance. But the most identifying characteristic are the two heavy veins of the wing. They breed in decaying organic matter that has almost become an unrecognizable state and are attracted to slimy drains, sewer leaks and dirty garbage cans. Generally a bigger pest problem for businesses than private homes.
To some extent, you can prevent flies around your home by minimizing food sources and larval habitat:
- Always cover food – flies spread diseases by landing on food.
- Clear away food and liquid spillages immediately.
- Clean food debris from under kitchen appliances.
- Make sure all trash bins have tightly sealed lids.
- Keep compost enclosed and covered.
- Clean up after pets – animal droppings are very attractive landing and breeding spots for flies.
Finally, you can help prevent flies from entering your home:
- Close windows and doors or block light with curtains.
- Fit fine-mesh screens to windows, especially around kitchen and garbage areas.