FLY CONTROL

Non-biting flies are one of the most important pest groups because they are not only nuisance pests, but many are also important in disease transmission. Flies feed on a variety of food materials but most of those of structural importance develop in either fermenting or decaying organic matter, although a few are parasitic on other animals. Fly control is often quite challenging because their larval developmental site(s) must usually be located and eliminated for success, and these sites may be some distance from where the adults are nuisances.

• More than 120,000 species exist ranging in size from one-twentieth of an inch to well over three inches long.
• Take on various shapes. In the larva or maggot stage, flies resemble greasy white worms.
• Do not have teeth or a stinger, but rather thrust needle-like hooks into victims and inject a digestive juice that breaks down cell tissue.
• Have life span of approximately 21 days (house flies).
• Are attracted to a variety of warm, moist substances from animal feces to human food and garbage.
• Spread at least 65 human pathogens including typhoid fever, diarrhea, tuberculosis, salmonellosis and cholera.
• Breed in garbage cans, compost heaps, pet feeding and pet elimination areas.

House Flies

Description

House flies get their name from being the most common fly found around homes. Adult house flies can grow to one-quarter of an inch long and usually live between 15 and 25 days.

Habits

They are only able to feed on liquids but have the ability to turn many solid foods into a liquid for them to eat. House flies taste with their feet, which are 10 million times more sensitive to sugar than the human tongue.

Habitat

House flies tend to stay within 1-2 miles of where they were born; however, they have been known to migrate up to 20 miles to find food.

Threats

These insects have been known to carry over 100 different kinds of disease-causing germs, which makes them very bad house guests.

Prevention

House flies can be controlled through vigilant sanitation. Remove trash regularly and use well-sealing garbage receptacles. Clean up pet waste immediately. Use fine mesh screens on doors and windows to prevent fly entry.

Fruit Flies

Description

Fruit flies feed on decaying fruits and vegetables.

Habits

Fruit flies feed on decaying matter, especially fruits and vegetables.

Habitat

Fruit flies are small pests that are commonly found in homes, restaurants and other facilities where food is processed. They are found on moist, decaying matter that has been stationary for several days.

Threats

Fruit flies are found in unsanitary conditions, so they are a potential heath concern, especially when present in health facilities.

Prevention

Fruit flies are best prevented through vigilant sanitation practices. Remove kitchen trash daily, and keep counter surfaces clean.