Common House Fly
Identification & Control
(Musca domestica)
The familiar household fly drawn to food and garbage.
Associated Species
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Physical Appearance
House flies are small gray flies about a quarter inch long with large red eyes. If you look closely, you’ll notice four dark stripes on their back. They move quickly, land often, and are usually seen flying around kitchens, windows, or trash areas.
Common Locations
House flies don’t build nests like some insects. Instead, they lay eggs in moist organic material such as garbage, food waste, compost, pet waste, or manure. Because their life cycle is fast, fly populations can grow quickly if a breeding source is nearby.
Why They're a Problem
House flies frequently land on garbage, waste, and other unsanitary surfaces before landing on food, countertops, or dishes. Because of this, they can spread bacteria that may contaminate food and food-preparation areas.
Homeowner Tips
House flies frequently land on garbage, waste, and other unsanitary surfaces before landing on food, countertops, or dishes. Because of this, they can spread bacteria that may contaminate food and food-preparation areas.
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Common House Fly
Flies
House flies are small gray flies about a quarter inch long with large red eyes. If you look closely, you’ll notice four dark stripes on their back. They move quickly, land often, and are usually seen flying around kitchens, windows, or trash areas.