How Do You Identify Different Types Of Flies?
Did you know that there are different types of flies? In fact, there are many kinds of flies, each with unique characteristics. In this blog post, we will discuss fly identification and the different types of flies that you might encounter.
We will start by discussing the different categories of flies and then describe each type in more detail. So whether you're a beginner in fly identification or want to find a way to stop your fly infestation, this blog post is for you!
Categories Of Flies
Flies are small, winged insects that are found throughout the world. There are many species of flies, and they can be divided into several categories.
Biting flies, such as mosquitoes and midges, feed on blood and are capable of spreading diseases.
Non-biting flies, such as houseflies and fruit flies, do not feed on blood but can carry disease-causing bacteria.
Overwintering flies, such as cluster flies, seek warmth and shelter in homes during the colder months.
Filth flies, such as blowflies and houseflies, breed in decaying organic matter.
Each type of fly has its own unique behavior and ecology, but all of them can be a nuisance to humans.
Blow And Bottle Flies
Blow and bottle flies are members of the family Calliphoridae. These flies are typically metallic blue or green in color and have a shiny appearance.
Blow flies are most attracted to decaying organic matter. Their food sources include roadkill or carcasses. They lay their eggs in this material, and the larvae (maggots) feed on the decomposing tissue.
Cheese Skippers
Cheese skippers are small fly species in the family Piophilidae. These flies get their name from their larvae's ability to "skip" across surfaces. Typically, cheese skippers lay their eggs on moldy cheese, ham, or other cured meats.
Cluster Flies
Cluster flies are members of the family Calliphoridae. They get their name from their tendency to fly in large numbers or "clusters." Cluster fly adults overwinter in homes and other buildings and often enter through cracks and crevices.
In the spring, they leave their winter hiding spots and mate outdoors. The female cluster fly lays her eggs in the soil, where the larvae will become parasites of earthworms before developing into adults.
Flesh Flies
Flesh flies exist as members of the family Sarcophagidae. These flies are attracted to decomposing flesh and lay their eggs in this material. The larvae of flesh flies are known as "maggots," and they feed on the decomposing tissue.
Fruit Flies
Fruit flies are small fly species in the family Tephritidae. These flies get their name from their larvae's ability to infest fruits and vegetables. If you've ever seen one, you've likely noticed their prominent bright red eyes.
Fruit fly adults are attracted to overripe or rotting fruits and vegetables, where they form breeding sites and lay their eggs. The larvae will then eat the decaying organic matter.
Fungus Gnats
Fungus gnats are small fly species in the family Sciaridae. They are often confused with mosquitoes but do not bite humans or animals. Instead, fungus gnats get their name from their larvae, which feed on fungi. Fungus gnats are most often attracted to damp or moist areas, such as gardens or greenhouses.
House Flies
House flies are members of the family Muscidae. They are one of the most common fly species found in homes and other buildings. You can often find Common house flies breeding in decaying organic material, such as garbage or manure. The larvae (maggots) feed on this material before pupating and emerging as adults.
Moth Flies (Drain Flies)
Moth flies (drain flies) are small fly species in the family Psychodidae. These flies get their name from their fuzzy appearance, which resembles that of a moth.
Moth fly adults are often found near wet areas, such as drains, sewage systems, or damp basements. The larvae of moth flies live in water and feed on organic matter.
Phorid Flies
Phorid flies are small fly species in the family Phoridae. Phorid fly adults are attracted to decomposing flesh and lay their eggs in this material. The larvae will then grow and feed on the rotting matter.
Sphaerocerid Flies (Dung Flies)
Sphaerocerid flies (dung flies) are members of the family Sphaeroceridae. These flies are attracted to fresh or decomposing dung, where they lay their eggs. The larvae of sphaerocerid flies feed on the dung before pupating and emerging as adults.
Stable Flies
Stable flies are members of the family Muscidae. They get their name from often being found around livestock and their stables. Stable fly adults breed in fresh or decomposing manure, and the larvae (maggots) feed on this material.
In the spring, adult stable flies emerge from their overwintering sites and mate outdoors. The female stable fly then lays her eggs in fresh manure, where the cycle begins anew.
Flies can be a nuisance to humans, but they can also be helpful in decomposing matter. They can be found in different environments, depending on what their larvae feed off of.
Some fly species are more common than others, and some are more annoying than others. But all fly species serve a purpose in the ecosystem.
Do-It-Yourself Pest Control Are Your Fly And Identification Experts
If you have fly problems and need help with fly identification or getting rid of flies, contact Do-It-Yourself Pest Control. We will be happy to help you find the best fly control products for your needs and provide expert advice on fly identification and fly control.
Visit our fly control products page or give us a call today!