House Flies
Musca domestica
House flies are medium-sized gray flies with four dark longitudinal stripes on the thorax. They have large reddish-brown compound eyes, sponging mouthparts (they can't bite), and clear wings. They're ...
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How to Identify House Flies
House flies are medium-sized gray flies with four dark longitudinal stripes on the thorax. They have large reddish-brown compound eyes, sponging mouthparts (they can't bite), and clear wings.
House flies are medium-sized gray flies with four dark longitudinal stripes on the thorax. They have large reddish-brown compound eyes, sponging mouthparts (they can't bite), and clear wings. They're the most common fly species associated with human habitation.
House Flies Behavior & Habits
Understanding how house flies behave helps prevent infestations
House flies feed on liquid or semi-liquid substances by regurgitating digestive juices onto food, then sucking it up. They alternate between feeding on garbage, feces, and food, spreading pathogens. Females lay eggs in rotting organic matter; larvae (maggots) develop in 3-5 days.
House Flies Risks & Dangers
What house flies can do to your health and property
Health Risks
House flies are significant disease vectors. They carry and transmit bacteria including Salmonella, E. coli, and many others. They spread pathogens by landing on contaminated material then landing on food.
Property Damage
No property damage, but their presence indicates sanitation issues that should be addressed.
Signs of House Flies Infestation
Look for these indicators in your home
House Flies in Boise & the Treasure Valley
House flies are common in Boise throughout the warmer months, especially in areas near livestock operations, garbage facilities, or pet waste. Urban areas see fewer flies than rural properties. Late summer populations can be substantial.
How We Eliminate House Flies
Professional treatment for complete elimination
House fly control requires integrated pest management: sanitation to remove breeding sources, exclusion to keep flies out, trapping to reduce populations, and targeted treatments when needed. We identify breeding sources, recommend sanitation improvements, install fly traps, and may apply residual treatments to resting areas.
How to Prevent House Flies
Steps you can take to reduce the risk of infestation
House Flies Questions Answered
Common questions about identification, prevention, and treatment
Why are there so many flies in my house?
Flies need organic material to breed. Check for: uncovered garbage, pet waste, compost too close to home, dead animals, or rotting food. Also check that screens are intact and doors aren't propped open.
Are house flies dangerous?
Yes. House flies can carry over 100 different pathogens including bacteria, viruses, and parasites. They spread disease by landing on contaminated material then landing on food or food preparation surfaces.
What about fly zappers?
Bug zappers kill flies but may spread bacteria when flies explode. They also attract flies from farther away, potentially increasing local populations. Light traps that contain flies are more sanitary for food areas.
Similar Pests
Learn about other pests in this category