Pest Profile: Flies

Fly Biology and Life Cycle

The life of a fly includes going through a complete metamorphosis across four stages. To start the life cycle, female flies lay eggs on or near food sources like garbage or decaying organic matter. These eggs usually hatch in just 8 to 24 hours, at which time they release larvae (called maggots). The whole life cycle usually takes one or two weeks, and adult flies can live for a few more weeks after that.

Fly Habitat and Behaviour

Like many pests, flies are attracted to moisture, food, and waste. This is why you’ll often see them in garbage areas, kitchens, or around pet food. Most flies are active during daytime, especially when the weather is warm. They can get into a house or another type of building through open doors and windows, or through small gaps. Flies easily move between indoor and outdoor environments, so infestations that start outside can eventually move inside.

Fly Treatment Options

Reducing attractants is the key to start dealing with a fly problem. Make it a point to dispose of all garbage properly and keep lids sealed. You also want to clean up any spills quickly and clean out your drains on a regular basis. If good sanitation practices alone aren’t enough, consider professional services that may deploy residual insecticides, traps, drain treatments, and other tactics.

Fly FAQs

Q: Are flies dangerous to humans?
A: Flies typically don’t bite humans, but they can spread bacteria by contaminating food and surfaces. This is why they are considered a health concern in kitchens and other food-handling areas. 

Q: Why do I suddenly have so many flies?
A: If you notice a sudden increase in the presence of flies, pay attention to things like trash buildup, spoiled food, or clogged drains that could be attracting them. 

Q: Can I get rid of flies on my own?
A: You can often solve minor fly problems on your own with improved sanitation and exclusion. If you already have a large infestation, however, professional treatment is the best way to go. 

Sources
https://ipm.ucanr.edu/home-and-landscape/flies/#gsc.tab=0
https://extension.psu.edu/house-flies
http://schoolipm.illinois.edu/flies/