The Essential Guide to Different Types of Flies: From Houseflies to Fruit Flies

Whether you find them annoying or fascinating, flies are an inevitable part of our daily lives. From the common housefly to the tiny fruit fly, these pesky insects can be found buzzing around our homes, gardens, and kitchens. But did you know that there are different types of flies, each with its own unique characteristics?

In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the fascinating world of flies and dive into the different types that you may encounter. We’ll discuss their habits, behavior, and the various environments they thrive in. Whether you’re dealing with an infestation or simply curious about these tiny creatures, this guide will provide you with the knowledge you need to understand and control them.

From the dirty habits of houseflies to the obsession with decaying matter of blowflies, we’ll examine the distinct characteristics of each type of fly and shed light on their purpose in the ecosystem. So, if you’ve ever wondered why flies seem to be everywhere or have wanted to learn more about these common insects, this guide is for you. Join us on this journey into the diverse world of flies and gain a newfound appreciation for these buzzing creatures.

House flies

Characteristics, behavior, and prevention

Houseflies, scientifically known as Musca domestica, are one of the most common types of flies found in households around the world. These flies are known for their distinctive buzzing sound and irritating habit of landing on food and surfaces. Understanding their characteristics and behavior is crucial for effective prevention and control.

Houseflies are small insects, typically measuring about 6-7 millimeters in length. They have a grayish color with four dark stripes on their thorax. Their compound eyes, which cover most of their head, provide them with excellent vision. Houseflies are attracted to human habitation due to the presence of food sources, warmth, and suitable breeding sites.

In terms of behavior, houseflies are known for their rapid breeding cycle. A female housefly can lay up to 500 eggs in her lifetime, which usually hatch within 24 hours. The larvae, commonly known as maggots, feed on organic waste material before pupating and emerging as adult flies. This cycle can repeat within a matter of days, leading to a rapid increase in population if not controlled.

Preventing a housefly infestation requires good sanitation practices. Regularly disposing of garbage, cleaning up spills, and keeping food covered can help minimize their attraction. Additionally, using screens on doors and windows can prevent flies from entering the house. In cases of severe infestation, professional pest control may be necessary to eliminate the problem.

Fruit Flies

Characteristics, behavior, and prevention

Fruit flies, or Drosophila melanogaster, are another common type of fly that can become a nuisance in homes, particularly in kitchens and near ripe fruits. These tiny flies are attracted to sweet and fermenting substances, making them a common sight around overripe fruits and decaying organic matter.

Fruit flies are small, measuring only about 2-4 millimeters in length. They have a tan or brownish body with bright red eyes. Unlike houseflies, fruit flies are not strong fliers and are often seen hovering around fruits, vegetables, and other food sources. They are particularly attracted to the smell of fermented substances.

The behavior of fruit flies is closely tied to their attraction to ripe or decaying fruits. Female fruit flies lay their eggs on the surface of these fruits, and within hours, the eggs hatch into larvae. The larvae, commonly known as fruit fly maggots, feed on the fermenting fruit, causing further decomposition. This behavior contributes to the spread of bacteria and fungi, making fruit flies not just a nuisance but also a potential health hazard.

To prevent fruit fly infestations, it is important to eliminate their breeding and food sources. Keeping ripe fruits in the refrigerator or covered containers can help deter fruit flies. Regularly cleaning up fallen or rotting fruits, as well as keeping kitchen surfaces clean, can also reduce their attraction. In cases of a severe infestation, using vinegar traps or commercial fruit fly baits can be effective in controlling their population.

Drain flies :

Characteristics, behavior, and prevention

Drain flies, also known as Psychodidae or moth flies, are a type of fly that is commonly found near drains, sewers, and other damp areas. These small, dark-colored flies are often seen hovering around sinks, showers, and toilets. Understanding their characteristics and behavior is essential for effective prevention and control.

Drain flies are tiny insects, measuring about 1.5-5 millimeters in length. They have a fuzzy appearance due to the presence of hairs on their wings and bodies. Drain flies are often mistaken for fruit flies due to their similar size, but they have distinct characteristics that set them apart. Their wings are covered in scales, and they have long, hairy antennae.

In terms of behavior, drain flies are attracted to moist environments and organic matter. They lay their eggs in the slimy residue that accumulates in drains, sewers, and other damp areas. The larvae, commonly known as drain fly larvae or drain worms, feed on the organic material present in these areas. The presence of drain flies often indicates a drainage problem or a buildup of organic matter in the plumbing system.

Preventing drain fly infestations requires identifying and eliminating their breeding and food sources. Regularly cleaning drains and removing any organic matter buildup can significantly reduce their attraction. Using drain cleaners or enzyme-based products can help break down the organic material and prevent drain fly infestations. In severe cases, professional plumbing services may be required to address underlying issues.

Cluster flies :

Characteristics, behavior, and prevention

Cluster flies, or Pollenia species, are a type of fly that is often associated with large numbers gathering in clusters, particularly in attics and wall voids. These flies are known for their sluggish behavior and tendency to seek shelter in homes during the cooler months. Understanding their characteristics and behavior is crucial for effective prevention and control.

Cluster flies are slightly larger than houseflies, measuring about 6-10 millimeters in length. They have a dark gray or blackish color with golden hairs on their thorax. Unlike houseflies, cluster flies are not active during the warmer months and do not pose a significant health risk. However, their large numbers and tendency to seek shelter in homes can be a nuisance.

In terms of behavior, cluster flies typically spend the warmer months outdoors, feeding on flowers and nectar. As the weather cools down, they seek shelter in protected areas, such as attics and wall voids. They often gather in large numbers, forming clusters for warmth and protection. During the winter months, cluster flies are relatively inactive, but they may become active on warmer days.

Preventing cluster fly infestations requires sealing potential entry points into the home, such as cracks and gaps in walls, windows, and doors. Installing screens on vents and repairing damaged screens can also help prevent their entry. If cluster flies have already entered the home, vacuuming them up or using sticky traps can help reduce their numbers. In severe cases, professional pest control may be necessary to eliminate the infestation.

Horse flies :

Characteristics, behavior, and prevention

Horse flies, or Tabanidae, are a type of fly that is known for its painful bite and affinity for large animals, including horses and cattle. These flies are often found near bodies of water, such as rivers and lakes, and can be a nuisance for both humans and animals. Understanding their characteristics and behavior is essential for effective prevention and control.

Horse flies are large insects, measuring about 1-2 centimeters in length. They have a robust body with large, brightly colored eyes. Unlike other types of flies, horse flies are strong fliers and can be quite aggressive in their pursuit of a blood meal. Only female horse flies bite, as they require blood for egg development.

In terms of behavior, horse flies are attracted to warm-blooded animals, including humans. They have sharp mouthparts that they use to pierce the skin and feed on blood. The bite of a horse fly can be painful and may result in swelling and itching. Horse flies are most active during the warmer months, particularly on sunny days with minimal wind.

Preventing horse fly bites requires minimizing their attraction. Wearing light-colored clothing and using insect repellents can help deter them. Applying screens or netting to windows and doors can prevent their entry into homes or buildings. In outdoor areas, using fans or creating a breeze can help reduce their presence. If horse flies are a significant problem, professional pest control services may be necessary.

Deer flies:

Characteristics, behavior, and prevention

Deer flies, or Chrysops, are a type of fly that is often associated with wooded areas and can be a nuisance for both humans and animals. These flies are known for their painful bites and preference for shaded areas. Understanding their characteristics and behavior is crucial for effective prevention and control.

Deer flies are medium-sized insects, measuring about 6-10 millimeters in length. They have a robust body with large, brightly colored eyes. Unlike horse flies, deer flies are not strong fliers and are often found near vegetation or in shaded areas. Only female deer flies bite, as they require blood for egg development.

In terms of behavior, deer flies are attracted to movement and carbon dioxide, making them particularly troublesome for outdoor activities. They have sharp mouthparts that they use to pierce the skin and feed on blood. The bite of a deer fly can be painful and may result in swelling and itching. Deer flies are most active during the warmer months, particularly in areas with high humidity.

Preventing deer fly bites requires minimizing their attraction. Using insect repellents, particularly those containing DEET, can help deter them. Wearing light-colored clothing and long sleeves can make it more difficult for deer flies to locate exposed skin. In outdoor areas, creating a breeze or using fans can help reduce their presence. If deer flies are abundant in a specific area, avoiding outdoor activities during their peak activity times may be necessary.

Flesh flies :

Characteristics, behavior, and prevention

Flesh flies, or Sarcophagidae, are a type of fly that is often associated with decaying organic matter, including dead animals and rotting food. These flies are known for their distinctive appearance and preference for unsanitary environments. Understanding their characteristics and behavior is essential for effective prevention and control.

Flesh flies are medium-sized insects, measuring about 8-13 millimeters in length. They have a gray or black body with three dark stripes on their thorax. Unlike other types of flies, flesh flies have a fleshy proboscis and are capable of depositing live larvae rather than eggs. The larvae, commonly known as flesh fly maggots, feed on decaying organic matter.

In terms of behavior, flesh flies are attracted to rotting meat, animal feces, and other decomposing materials. Female flesh flies seek out suitable locations to deposit their live larvae, which then feed on the decaying matter. The presence of flesh flies is often an indicator of unsanitary conditions and poor waste management.

Preventing flesh fly infestations requires good sanitation practices. Properly disposing of garbage, particularly meat or animal waste, is crucial in minimizing their attraction. Regularly cleaning up pet waste and maintaining clean outdoor areas can also help deter flesh flies. In cases of a severe infestation, professional pest control may be necessary to eliminate the problem.

Blow flies :

Characteristics, behavior, and prevention

Blow flies, or Calliphoridae, are a type of fly that is often associated with decaying organic matter, including dead animals and rotting food. These flies are known for their metallic appearance and preference for unsanitary environments. Understanding their characteristics and behavior is crucial for effective prevention and control.

Blow flies are medium-sized insects, measuring about 6-14 millimeters in length. They have a metallic sheen on their body, which can range from green to blue or black. Unlike other types of flies, blow flies are capable of depositing live larvae rather than eggs. The larvae, commonly known as blow fly maggots, feed on decaying organic matter.

In terms of behavior, blow flies are attracted to decaying meat, animal carcasses, and other decomposing materials. Female blow flies seek out suitable locations to deposit their live larvae, which then feed on the decaying matter. The presence of blow flies is often an indicator of unsanitary conditions and poor waste management.

Preventing blow fly infestations requires good sanitation practices. Properly disposing of garbage, particularly meat or animal waste, is crucial in minimizing their attraction. Regularly cleaning up pet waste and maintaining clean outdoor areas can also help deter blow flies. In cases of a severe infestation, professional pest control may be necessary to eliminate the problem.

If you find yourself with a severe flight infestation, you should contact a local fly exterminator immediately because of the hazard they can cause.