Flies

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.

Color: Dark gray
Legs: 6
Shape: Small oval
Size: ¼ of an inch

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 make 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 feed on decaying fruits and vegetables.

Color: Tan/light abdomen
Legs: 6
Shape: Small oval
Size: 1/8 of an inch

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 health 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.