**Why Do I Have Hundreds Of Flies In My House?**

Having hundreds of flies in your house can be frustrating, but understanding why they’re there is the first step to solving the problem, and flyermedia.net can help. Flies are often attracted to food sources and breeding grounds inside your home, so addressing sanitation issues and sealing entry points can significantly reduce their numbers. Identifying the type of flies and their specific attractants is crucial for effective control strategies. Keep reading to find expert tips on pest management, sanitation, and structural maintenance to maintain a fly-free environment.

1. Understanding Fly Behavior

Flies, belonging to the order Diptera, are a diverse group of insects characterized by their single pair of wings. Understanding their behavior is essential for addressing infestations. Flies are attracted to environments that offer ample food sources and suitable breeding grounds. Common indoor fly species include house flies (Musca domestica), fruit flies (Drosophila spp.), and drain flies (Psychodidae spp.). Each type has unique attractants and behaviors:

House Flies: These are drawn to decaying organic matter and can lay hundreds of eggs in moist areas like garbage, pet waste, or compost.
Fruit Flies: These are attracted to ripe or fermenting fruits and vegetables, as well as sugary substances such as spilled juice or soda.
Drain Flies: These thrive in moist environments such as clogged drains, sewage systems, or standing water.

Understanding these behaviors will help you identify and eliminate the sources attracting flies to your home.

2. What Causes a Fly Infestation in My House?

If you’re experiencing an overwhelming number of flies in your home, you’re likely wondering why. What attracts flies, and where do they come from? Several factors can contribute to a fly infestation in your home.

2.1. Decaying Matter

One of the most common causes of a fly infestation is decaying matter in and around your home. Flies are scavengers, consuming dead and dying organic material. When flies find decaying matter, they move in to consume it. Adult flies also lay their eggs in decaying matter, laying many at once.

Dead animals, rotting meat, or open compost heaps can draw these pests into your home. Structural gaps, such as cracks in walls or poorly sealed windows, provide entry points for flies seeking warmth or shelter. Areas with standing water, clogged drains, or damp environments also create ideal breeding grounds for many fly species. According to a study by the University of Florida, proper waste management and sanitation practices can reduce fly populations by up to 80%.

2.2. Warm Weather

Flies need specific conditions to lay eggs that will survive. If those conditions are met, the eggs will grow into larvae, and the larvae will grow into adult flies, continuing the life cycle. Flies typically lay their eggs in dead and decaying organic material, and warmth is also essential for their survival. Temperatures of 75 degrees Fahrenheit and higher are ideal for most fly species.

Check your home for places favorable for fly eggs if you’ve been overrun with flies. Examples of spots that can offer ideal temperatures for fly growth are:

Bathrooms
Laundry rooms
Around appliances
Hot water heaters
Dishwashers
Refrigerators

2.3. Long Lifespan and Fast Breeding

The average fly lives between 15 to 30 days, which is longer than you might think. They also breed very quickly. A single fly left unchecked can lay hundreds of eggs, creating a severe infestation within weeks.

If you see even just one fly buzzing around your house and don’t swat it, it could lay eggs. Those eggs will hatch and become adult houseflies, which will lay more eggs. Before you know it, the situation will worsen, and a cluster of flies will appear. Taking effective pest control measures at the first sign of a fly problem is essential to prevent their numbers from escalating. According to the World Health Organization, fly control measures can reduce the spread of diseases transmitted by flies.

3. What Are the Best Ways to Get Rid of Flies?

Effectively managing a fly infestation involves identifying the root cause and implementing targeted strategies to eliminate breeding sites and adult flies. Key steps include locating and removing sources of attraction, such as decaying organic matter or standing water, and sealing potential entry points like cracks and gaps in windows and doors.

3.1. Sanitation and Waste Management

How can I prevent flies from being attracted to my garbage? Keeping things clean is essential! Trash should be taken out frequently, and trash cans should be cleaned regularly. Trash is one of the main food sources for flies. According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), proper waste management can significantly reduce fly populations. Regularly clean and sanitize garbage cans, recycling bins, and compost containers. Using liners and ensuring tight-fitting lids will also help prevent flies from accessing these sources.

3.2. Temperature Control

How does temperature affect fly breeding? Reducing the temperature in areas where flies seem to be originating can help control their breeding. Use dehumidifiers and fans to create an inhospitable environment for fly larvae. Flies thrive in warm, humid conditions, so lowering the temperature and reducing moisture can inhibit their development. A study by the University of California, Riverside, found that lower temperatures significantly reduce the breeding rate of house flies.

3.3. Sealing Entry Points

How can I prevent flies from entering my home? Inspect and seal cracks, gaps, and holes in walls, windows, and doors. Install screens to block flies from entering your home. Flies can enter through tiny openings, so sealing these entry points is crucial for preventing infestations. Use caulk, weather stripping, and screens to create a barrier against flies. Regular maintenance and inspections can help identify and address potential entry points before they become a problem.

3.4. Proper Food Storage and Cleanup

How can I keep flies away from my food? Store food in sealed containers to prevent access to flies. Clean spills and crumbs promptly, especially in kitchen and dining areas. Flies are attracted to food odors, so proper storage and cleanup are essential for preventing infestations. Use airtight containers for storing food, and promptly clean up any spills or crumbs. Regularly cleaning under appliances and in pantries can also help eliminate food sources for flies.

3.5. Fly Traps and UV Light Devices

What are the most effective types of fly traps? Use fly traps to catch them. Set up UV fly traps, which are particularly effective for capturing large fly species like blowflies and cluster flies. Fly traps and UV light devices can help reduce the adult fly population in your home. There are various types of fly traps available, including sticky traps, bait traps, and electronic traps. UV light devices attract flies with ultraviolet light and then trap or kill them. Place traps in areas where flies are most active, such as near windows, doors, and food preparation areas.

3.6. Drain Maintenance

How can I prevent flies from breeding in my drains? Repair leaking pipes, faucets, and other sources of standing water. Ensure proper drainage around the home to eliminate breeding sites for flies. Clear clogged drains and eliminate standing water to disrupt breeding grounds. Drain flies, also known as moth flies, thrive in moist, organic-rich environments such as drains and sewers. Regularly clean drains with a brush and enzymatic drain cleaner to remove organic matter and prevent fly breeding. Fix any leaks or plumbing issues that contribute to standing water.

3.7. Immediate Action

Why is it important to act quickly when you see a fly? Act fast! If you see even just one fly, be sure to take care of it immediately. Flies can reproduce quickly, so addressing even a small number of flies can prevent a larger infestation. Swatting flies, using a fly swatter, or vacuuming them up can help eliminate them before they have a chance to reproduce. Regularly inspect your home for signs of fly activity and take proactive measures to prevent infestations.

4. When Should I Seek Professional Help for a Fly Problem?

While many fly infestations can be effectively managed through proactive measures, there are instances where professional intervention may be necessary. Consider contacting pest control professionals if:

The problem persists despite your best efforts.
The source is difficult to locate or inaccessible.
There are health or safety concerns associated with the infestation.
The infestation involves potentially harmful or nuisance species of flies.

Professional pest control services can assess the severity of the fly infestation, identify contributing factors, and implement effective strategies to eradicate flies safely and effectively. They may also provide guidance on long-term pest prevention to keep your home fly-free. You can always find a reputable pest control company through flyermedia.net.

5. What Professional Pest Control Services Can Do for You

Professional pest control services offer a comprehensive approach to managing fly infestations, providing expertise and resources that homeowners may lack. Here’s how they can help:

5.1. Thorough Inspection and Identification

Pest control professionals conduct a thorough inspection of your property to identify the species of flies involved and locate breeding sites and attractants. This assessment helps them develop a targeted treatment plan.

5.2. Customized Treatment Plans

Based on their findings, pest control professionals create a customized treatment plan tailored to your specific situation. This plan may include:

Insecticides: Applying insecticides to kill adult flies and larvae.
Growth Regulators: Using growth regulators to disrupt the development of fly larvae.
Trapping: Setting up traps to capture adult flies.
Exclusion: Sealing entry points to prevent flies from entering your home.

5.3. Safe and Effective Treatments

Professional pest control services use safe and effective treatments that minimize the risk to your family and pets. They are trained to handle pesticides and other chemicals properly, ensuring that they are applied safely and effectively.

5.4. Long-Term Prevention

In addition to eliminating existing fly infestations, pest control professionals can provide guidance on long-term prevention strategies. This may include recommendations for sanitation, waste management, and structural repairs to prevent future infestations.

6. Understanding Different Types of Flies

Identifying the specific types of flies infesting your home is crucial for implementing effective control measures. Each type of fly has unique habits, breeding preferences, and attractants, which influence the strategies needed to eliminate them. Here’s a detailed look at some common types of flies found in homes:

6.1. House Flies (Musca domestica)

Identification: House flies are typically gray in color, with four dark stripes on their thorax. They are about ¼ inch long and have sponging mouthparts.
Habits: House flies are common pests that feed on a wide range of organic matter, including garbage, feces, and food waste. They are attracted to decaying materials and can transmit diseases.
Breeding: House flies lay their eggs in decaying organic matter, such as garbage, compost piles, and animal waste. The eggs hatch into larvae (maggots), which feed on the decaying material before pupating and emerging as adult flies.
Control: Effective control measures include sanitation, proper waste management, and the use of fly traps and insecticides. Keeping garbage cans clean and tightly sealed, as well as eliminating breeding sites, is essential for preventing house fly infestations.

6.2. Fruit Flies (Drosophila spp.)

Identification: Fruit flies are small, about ⅛ inch long, and typically have red eyes. They are attracted to ripe and fermenting fruits and vegetables.
Habits: Fruit flies are common pests in kitchens and pantries, where they feed on overripe fruits, vegetables, and sugary substances. They are attracted to the odors of fermentation and can quickly multiply in large numbers.
Breeding: Fruit flies lay their eggs on the surface of ripe or fermenting fruits and vegetables. The larvae feed on the fruit before pupating and emerging as adult flies.
Control: Control measures include removing overripe fruits and vegetables, cleaning up spills, and using fruit fly traps. Storing fruits and vegetables in the refrigerator and keeping kitchen surfaces clean can help prevent fruit fly infestations.

6.3. Drain Flies (Psychodidae spp.)

Identification: Drain flies are small, about ⅛ inch long, and have a fuzzy, moth-like appearance. They are often found near drains and sewers.
Habits: Drain flies, also known as moth flies or sewer flies, breed in moist, organic-rich environments such as drains, sewers, and septic tanks. They feed on decaying organic matter and can become a nuisance in homes and businesses.
Breeding: Drain flies lay their eggs in the gelatinous film that lines drains and sewers. The larvae feed on the organic matter in the film before pupating and emerging as adult flies.
Control: Control measures include cleaning drains with a brush and enzymatic drain cleaner to remove organic matter. Fixing any leaks or plumbing issues that contribute to standing water can also help prevent drain fly infestations.

6.4. Blow Flies (Calliphoridae)

Identification: Blow flies are large, metallic-colored flies, typically blue or green. They are attracted to decaying meat and animal carcasses.
Habits: Blow flies are common pests in areas where there is decaying meat or animal carcasses. They are attracted to the odors of decomposition and can transmit diseases.
Breeding: Blow flies lay their eggs on decaying meat, animal carcasses, and other organic matter. The larvae feed on the decaying material before pupating and emerging as adult flies.
Control: Control measures include removing decaying meat and animal carcasses, keeping garbage cans tightly sealed, and using fly traps and insecticides. Sealing entry points and preventing access to potential breeding sites is essential for preventing blow fly infestations.

6.5. Cluster Flies (Pollenia rudis)

Identification: Cluster flies are large, dark-colored flies that often gather in large numbers indoors during the fall and winter.
Habits: Cluster flies are parasitic on earthworms and are commonly found in rural areas. They enter homes in the fall to seek shelter from the cold and often gather in attics, walls, and other protected areas.
Breeding: Cluster flies lay their eggs in the soil near earthworm burrows. The larvae parasitize earthworms before pupating and emerging as adult flies.
Control: Control measures include sealing entry points to prevent flies from entering your home. Insecticides can be used to treat infested areas, but long-term prevention requires sealing cracks and gaps in walls, windows, and doors.

7. Natural and DIY Fly Control Methods

If you prefer a more natural approach to fly control, several DIY methods can help reduce fly populations in your home. These methods are often less toxic and can be effective for managing minor infestations.

7.1. Apple Cider Vinegar Trap

How it Works: Flies are attracted to the sweet smell of apple cider vinegar. To create a trap, pour some apple cider vinegar into a jar and cover the top with plastic wrap. Poke a few small holes in the plastic wrap. Flies can enter the jar but cannot escape.
Effectiveness: This method is particularly effective for catching fruit flies.
Safety: Apple cider vinegar is non-toxic and safe for use around children and pets.

7.2. Essential Oil Spray

How it Works: Certain essential oils, such as peppermint, eucalyptus, and lavender, have insect-repelling properties. Mix a few drops of essential oil with water in a spray bottle and spray around areas where flies are present.
Effectiveness: This method can help repel flies and prevent them from entering your home.
Safety: Essential oils are generally safe, but it’s essential to dilute them properly and avoid direct contact with skin and eyes.

7.3. Homemade Fly Paper

How it Works: Create your own fly paper by coating strips of paper with a sticky substance, such as honey or corn syrup. Hang the fly paper in areas where flies are present.
Effectiveness: This method can help catch and trap flies.
Safety: Homemade fly paper is non-toxic and safe for use around children and pets.

7.4. Herbal Repellents

How it Works: Certain herbs, such as basil, mint, and rosemary, have insect-repelling properties. Place pots of these herbs near windows and doors to help repel flies.
Effectiveness: This method can help repel flies and create a pleasant aroma in your home.
Safety: Herbal repellents are non-toxic and safe for use around children and pets.

7.5. Diatomaceous Earth

How it Works: Diatomaceous earth is a natural powder made from fossilized algae. It is non-toxic to humans and pets but deadly to insects. Sprinkle diatomaceous earth around areas where flies are present.
Effectiveness: Diatomaceous earth can help kill flies and prevent them from breeding.
Safety: Use food-grade diatomaceous earth and avoid inhaling the powder.

8. Maintaining a Clean Home to Prevent Fly Infestations

Maintaining a clean home is essential for preventing fly infestations. Flies are attracted to unsanitary conditions, so keeping your home clean and tidy can help deter them.

8.1. Regular Cleaning

Kitchen: Clean kitchen surfaces, including countertops, sinks, and stovetops, regularly. Wipe up spills and crumbs immediately.
Bathrooms: Clean bathrooms regularly, paying attention to drains, toilets, and showers.
Floors: Sweep and mop floors regularly to remove food particles and debris.
Garbage Cans: Empty garbage cans frequently and clean them regularly to prevent odors.

8.2. Proper Food Storage

Airtight Containers: Store food in airtight containers to prevent flies from accessing it.
Refrigeration: Store perishable foods in the refrigerator to slow down spoilage and prevent fly attraction.
Fruit and Vegetables: Store fruits and vegetables in the refrigerator or in sealed containers to prevent fruit fly infestations.

8.3. Waste Management

Garbage Disposal: Use a garbage disposal to grind up food waste and prevent odors.
Composting: Compost food waste in a closed container to prevent fly attraction.
Pet Waste: Clean up pet waste immediately to prevent flies from breeding.

8.4. Yard Maintenance

Lawn Care: Mow your lawn regularly and remove grass clippings to prevent flies from breeding.
Standing Water: Eliminate standing water in your yard to prevent mosquitoes and other pests from breeding.
Debris Removal: Remove debris, such as leaves and branches, from your yard to prevent flies from hiding and breeding.

9. Understanding the Fly Life Cycle

Understanding the life cycle of flies can help you implement effective control measures. Flies undergo complete metamorphosis, which means they have four distinct life stages: egg, larva, pupa, and adult.

9.1. Egg Stage

Description: Fly eggs are small and white, and they are typically laid in clusters on decaying organic matter.
Duration: The egg stage lasts from a few hours to a few days, depending on the species and environmental conditions.

9.2. Larva Stage

Description: Fly larvae, also known as maggots, are legless and worm-like. They feed on decaying organic matter.
Duration: The larva stage lasts from a few days to a few weeks, depending on the species and environmental conditions.

9.3. Pupa Stage

Description: The pupa is a non-feeding stage during which the larva transforms into an adult fly.
Duration: The pupa stage lasts from a few days to a few weeks, depending on the species and environmental conditions.

9.4. Adult Stage

Description: Adult flies are winged insects that can fly and reproduce.
Duration: The adult stage lasts from a few weeks to a few months, depending on the species and environmental conditions.

10. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Fly Infestations

10.1. What are the signs of a fly infestation?

Signs of a fly infestation include seeing multiple flies in your home, finding fly larvae (maggots), and noticing fly droppings.

10.2. What attracts flies to my house?

Flies are attracted to decaying organic matter, food waste, garbage, and standing water.

10.3. How can I prevent flies from entering my home?

You can prevent flies from entering your home by sealing entry points, installing screens, and keeping doors and windows closed.

10.4. How can I get rid of flies in my house?

You can get rid of flies in your house by cleaning up spills, storing food properly, using fly traps, and hiring a pest control professional if needed.

10.5. Are flies dangerous?

Flies can transmit diseases and contaminate food, so it’s essential to control fly populations in your home.

10.6. What are some natural ways to get rid of flies?

Natural ways to get rid of flies include using apple cider vinegar traps, essential oil sprays, and herbal repellents.

10.7. How can I prevent flies from breeding in my drains?

You can prevent flies from breeding in your drains by cleaning drains with a brush and enzymatic drain cleaner and fixing any leaks or plumbing issues.

10.8. Why are there so many flies in my house all of a sudden?

A sudden increase in flies may indicate a nearby breeding source, such as a dead animal, open garbage can, or clogged drain.

10.9. Can flies lay eggs in my hair?

While it’s unlikely, flies can lay eggs on humans if there is decaying organic matter present, such as open wounds or unclean skin.

10.10. How long do flies live?

The lifespan of a fly varies depending on the species and environmental conditions but typically ranges from a few weeks to a few months.

By understanding the behavior, causes, and control methods for fly infestations, you can take proactive steps to keep your home fly-free. Remember, flyermedia.net offers a wealth of information on pest control and other home maintenance topics. Don’t hesitate to explore our resources for more expert tips and advice.

Is your home under siege by hundreds of flies? Don’t despair! flyermedia.net is your go-to resource for expert pest control advice and solutions. Learn how to identify the root cause of your fly infestation, implement effective DIY methods, and when to call in the professionals. Plus, discover the latest innovations in fly traps and prevention techniques. Visit flyermedia.net today and reclaim your home from those pesky flies! For immediate assistance, you can also contact us at Address: 600 S Clyde Morris Blvd, Daytona Beach, FL 32114, United States or Phone: +1 (386) 226-6000.