Flies land on you because they are attracted to the warmth, moisture, and substances found on human skin. flyermedia.net provides comprehensive insights into fly behavior and effective control methods. This article explores the reasons behind this behavior and offers practical tips to keep your home fly-free, focusing on fly control and preventing fly infestations.
Table of Contents
- Why Are Flies Attracted to Humans?
- What Attracts Flies to Your Home?
- How Do Flies Find Us?
- Are Flies Dangerous?
- What Diseases Do Flies Carry?
- How to Prevent Flies from Landing on You?
- Effective Fly Control Methods for Your Home
- DIY Fly Traps: A Practical Guide
- Professional Fly Control Services
- Understanding Fly Species and Their Behavior
- FAQ About Flies
1. Why Are Flies Attracted to Humans?
Flies are attracted to humans for several reasons, primarily related to their scavenging nature and sensory capabilities. The key factors include body warmth, the presence of moisture, and the availability of nutrients on our skin.
Body Warmth
Flies, like many insects, are drawn to warm environments. Humans, being warm-blooded creatures, radiate heat, making us attractive targets. This warmth helps flies conserve energy and regulate their body temperature, especially in cooler environments. According to research from the University of California, Davis, flies are more active in warmer temperatures, seeking out heat sources to maintain their metabolic rate.
Moisture
Moisture is another significant attractant for flies. They need water to survive and are naturally drawn to damp or moist areas. Human skin often has a thin layer of sweat or natural oils that provide this moisture. This is particularly noticeable in humid conditions or after physical activity, making you an even more appealing target.
Nutrients on Skin
Human skin is a rich source of nutrients for flies. They feed on dead skin cells, oils, and salts present on the epidermis. Flies use their proboscis, a straw-like mouthpart, to suck up these substances. This feeding behavior is similar to how they feed on other decaying organic matter.
Odor
Odor plays a crucial role in attracting flies to humans. Flies possess a highly developed sense of smell, allowing them to detect odors from a considerable distance.
Carbon Dioxide
Humans exhale carbon dioxide, a gas that flies can detect and are attracted to. This is one of the reasons Why Flies often hover around the face, as this is a primary source of CO2 emissions.
Body Odor
Body odor, particularly if strong or distinct, can attract flies. This includes the scent of sweat, perfumes, lotions, and other personal care products. Flies may be attracted to specific chemical compounds in these scents.
Open Wounds and Secretions
Flies are attracted to open wounds, sores, and other skin lesions. These areas often contain blood, pus, and other bodily fluids that are rich in nutrients. Flies are known to feed on these substances, which can lead to the transmission of diseases.
Clothing
The color and type of clothing you wear can also influence how attractive you are to flies. Dark-colored clothing tends to absorb more heat, making you a warmer target. Additionally, clothing that is soiled or stained with food or sweat can attract flies due to the odors emitted.
2. What Attracts Flies to Your Home?
Flies are opportunistic scavengers, and several factors can make your home an attractive habitat. Understanding these attractants is crucial for effective fly control.
Food Sources
Flies are primarily attracted to homes that offer readily available food sources.
Garbage and Waste
Uncovered or overflowing garbage cans are a major attractant for flies. Decaying food scraps, especially meat and fruit, emit strong odors that flies can detect from a distance. Regularly cleaning and emptying garbage bins, and ensuring they are tightly sealed, is essential.
Pet Waste
Pet waste, particularly dog feces, is highly attractive to flies. The organic matter and strong odors serve as both a food source and a breeding ground. Promptly cleaning up pet waste is crucial for preventing fly infestations.
Spills and Messes
Food and drink spills, especially sugary substances, attract flies. Sticky residue from spills provides an easy meal and can quickly lead to a fly problem. Regularly cleaning up spills and maintaining clean surfaces is vital.
Standing Water
Flies need water to survive and will seek out sources of standing water.
Leaky Pipes and Faucets
Leaky pipes, dripping faucets, and condensation provide flies with a constant water source. Repairing these leaks can significantly reduce fly attraction.
Damp Areas
Damp areas, such as basements and crawl spaces, are ideal breeding grounds for flies. Moisture promotes the growth of mold and mildew, which some fly species feed on. Improving ventilation and addressing moisture issues can help prevent fly infestations.
Entry Points
Flies can enter your home through various openings, so securing these entry points is essential for preventing infestations.
Open Doors and Windows
Open doors and windows are obvious entry points for flies. Keeping doors and windows closed, especially during peak fly activity periods, can help keep flies out.
Cracks and Holes
Cracks in walls, gaps around windows and doors, and holes in screens provide easy access for flies. Sealing these openings with caulk or weather stripping can prevent flies from entering your home.
Dirty Drains
Drains can accumulate organic matter, providing a breeding ground for flies. Regularly cleaning drains with a drain cleaner or a mixture of baking soda and vinegar can help prevent fly infestations. According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), maintaining clean drains is a key step in preventing fly problems.
Overripe Produce
Overripe or decaying fruits and vegetables emit odors that attract flies. Storing produce in the refrigerator or in sealed containers can prevent flies from being drawn to your kitchen.
Houseplants
Houseplants can attract flies if the soil is too moist or if decaying organic matter is present. Allowing the soil to dry out between waterings and removing any dead leaves can help prevent fly infestations.
3. How Do Flies Find Us?
Flies use a combination of senses to locate humans and potential food sources. Their sensory capabilities are highly developed, allowing them to detect warmth, odors, and visual cues from a distance.
Sense of Smell
Flies have an exceptional sense of smell, which they use to detect potential food sources, breeding grounds, and hosts.
Antennae
Flies have antennae covered in sensory receptors that detect odors in the air. These receptors are highly sensitive, allowing flies to detect even minute concentrations of certain chemicals.
Olfactory Receptors
Olfactory receptors in the antennae bind to odor molecules, triggering a signal that is sent to the fly’s brain. This allows the fly to identify and locate the source of the odor.
Sense of Sight
Flies have compound eyes that provide them with a wide field of vision and the ability to detect movement.
Compound Eyes
Flies have compound eyes composed of thousands of individual lenses called ommatidia. This gives them a mosaic-like view of the world and allows them to detect even the slightest movement.
Movement Detection
Flies are highly sensitive to movement, which helps them locate potential food sources and avoid predators. They can quickly detect and react to movement in their environment.
Heat Detection
Flies can detect heat through specialized sensory organs.
Thermoreceptors
Some fly species have thermoreceptors that allow them to detect temperature differences. This helps them locate warm-blooded hosts, such as humans and animals.
Humidity Detection
Flies are attracted to moisture and can detect humidity through sensory organs.
Hygroreceptors
Flies have hygroreceptors that allow them to detect changes in humidity. This helps them locate sources of water and damp environments.
Carbon Dioxide Detection
Flies can detect carbon dioxide, a gas that humans and animals exhale.
Maxillary Palps
Some fly species have maxillary palps that contain receptors for carbon dioxide. This helps them locate hosts from a distance.
Behavioral Responses
Flies exhibit specific behavioral responses to different stimuli, helping them locate hosts and food sources.
Positive Phototaxis
Flies are attracted to light, a behavior known as positive phototaxis. This is why they often fly towards windows and other light sources.
Aggregation Pheromones
Some fly species release aggregation pheromones that attract other flies to a specific location. This can lead to large gatherings of flies in areas with abundant food sources.
4. Are Flies Dangerous?
Flies are more than just a nuisance; they can pose significant health risks due to their ability to transmit diseases. Understanding the potential dangers associated with flies is crucial for taking appropriate preventive measures.
Disease Transmission
Flies are known carriers of numerous pathogens, including bacteria, viruses, and parasites. They pick up these pathogens from contaminated sources and can then transmit them to humans and animals.
Mechanical Transmission
Flies can transmit pathogens mechanically by carrying them on their bodies, particularly on their legs and mouthparts. When a fly lands on a surface, it can deposit these pathogens, contaminating food, water, and other objects.
Regurgitation and Defecation
Flies often regurgitate and defecate while feeding, further contributing to the spread of pathogens. The regurgitated material and feces can contain high concentrations of bacteria and viruses.
Common Diseases Carried by Flies
Flies are known to carry and transmit a wide range of diseases, some of which can be severe.
Typhoid Fever
Typhoid fever is a bacterial infection caused by Salmonella Typhi. Flies can transmit this bacteria by contaminating food and water. Symptoms include high fever, abdominal pain, and a rash.
Cholera
Cholera is an acute diarrheal infection caused by Vibrio cholerae. Flies can transmit this bacteria by carrying it on their bodies and contaminating food and water. Symptoms include severe diarrhea and dehydration.
Dysentery
Dysentery is an intestinal infection that can be caused by bacteria or parasites. Flies can transmit the pathogens responsible for dysentery by contaminating food and water. Symptoms include diarrhea, abdominal pain, and fever.
E. Coli Infection
Escherichia coli (E. coli) is a bacteria that can cause a range of illnesses, including diarrhea, urinary tract infections, and pneumonia. Flies can transmit E. coli by contaminating food and surfaces.
Salmonellosis
Salmonellosis is a bacterial infection caused by Salmonella. Flies can transmit this bacteria by contaminating food and water. Symptoms include diarrhea, fever, and abdominal cramps.
Shigellosis
Shigellosis is a bacterial infection caused by Shigella. Flies can transmit this bacteria by contaminating food and water. Symptoms include diarrhea, fever, and abdominal cramps.
Trachoma
Trachoma is a bacterial infection that affects the eyes and can lead to blindness. Flies can transmit the bacteria responsible for trachoma by carrying it on their bodies and spreading it to the eyes.
Yaws
Yaws is a chronic bacterial infection of the skin, bones, and joints. Flies can transmit the bacteria responsible for yaws by carrying it on their bodies and spreading it through contact with skin lesions.
Conjunctivitis
Conjunctivitis, also known as pinkeye, is an inflammation of the conjunctiva, the membrane that lines the inner surface of the eyelids and covers the white part of the eye. Flies can transmit the bacteria or viruses responsible for conjunctivitis by carrying them on their bodies and spreading them to the eyes.
Other Potential Risks
In addition to disease transmission, flies can pose other risks.
Allergic Reactions
Some people are allergic to flies and may experience allergic reactions when exposed to them. Symptoms can include skin rashes, itching, and respiratory problems.
Myiasis
Myiasis is a parasitic infestation caused by fly larvae that feed on living tissue. Flies can lay their eggs on open wounds or sores, and the larvae can then burrow into the tissue, causing pain and infection.
Contamination of Food Products
Flies can contaminate food products in food processing facilities, restaurants, and homes. This can lead to foodborne illnesses and economic losses.
5. What Diseases Do Flies Carry?
Flies are known to carry a wide array of diseases, making them significant vectors of pathogens. Understanding the specific diseases they can transmit is crucial for implementing effective preventive measures. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), flies contribute to the spread of numerous diseases worldwide.
Bacterial Diseases
Flies can carry and transmit several bacterial diseases, posing a significant risk to human health.
Typhoid Fever
Flies can transmit Salmonella Typhi, the bacteria that causes typhoid fever, by contaminating food and water. Symptoms of typhoid fever include high fever, abdominal pain, and a rash.
Cholera
Flies can transmit Vibrio cholerae, the bacteria that causes cholera, by carrying it on their bodies and contaminating food and water. Symptoms of cholera include severe diarrhea and dehydration.
Dysentery
Flies can transmit the bacteria or parasites that cause dysentery, leading to symptoms such as diarrhea, abdominal pain, and fever.
E. Coli Infection
Flies can transmit Escherichia coli (E. coli), a bacteria that can cause a range of illnesses, including diarrhea, urinary tract infections, and pneumonia.
Salmonellosis
Flies can transmit Salmonella, the bacteria that causes salmonellosis, leading to symptoms such as diarrhea, fever, and abdominal cramps.
Shigellosis
Flies can transmit Shigella, the bacteria that causes shigellosis, leading to symptoms such as diarrhea, fever, and abdominal cramps.
Viral Diseases
Flies can also carry and transmit several viral diseases, contributing to the spread of infections.
Conjunctivitis
Flies can transmit the bacteria or viruses responsible for conjunctivitis, leading to inflammation of the conjunctiva and symptoms such as redness, itching, and discharge.
Parasitic Diseases
Flies can transmit parasitic diseases, posing a risk to human and animal health.
Myiasis
Flies can cause myiasis by laying their eggs on open wounds or sores, allowing the larvae to burrow into the tissue and cause pain and infection.
Other Diseases
In addition to bacterial, viral, and parasitic diseases, flies can also contribute to the spread of other illnesses.
Trachoma
Flies can transmit the bacteria responsible for trachoma, an eye infection that can lead to blindness.
Yaws
Flies can transmit the bacteria responsible for yaws, a chronic bacterial infection of the skin, bones, and joints.
6. How to Prevent Flies from Landing on You?
Preventing flies from landing on you involves a combination of personal hygiene practices, environmental control, and the use of repellents. Implementing these strategies can significantly reduce your exposure to flies and the diseases they may carry.
Personal Hygiene
Maintaining good personal hygiene is essential for preventing flies from being attracted to you.
Regular Showering
Showering regularly helps remove sweat, oils, and dead skin cells that attract flies. Using a mild, unscented soap can further reduce your attractiveness to flies.
Clean Clothing
Wearing clean clothing can prevent flies from being attracted to odors and stains. Change your clothes regularly, especially after physical activity.
Environmental Control
Controlling your environment can reduce the number of flies in your vicinity.
Keep Surroundings Clean
Keeping your surroundings clean and free of food scraps, garbage, and pet waste can reduce fly populations. Regularly clean up spills and messes.
Use Fly Screens
Installing fly screens on windows and doors can prevent flies from entering your home. Ensure that the screens are in good condition and free of holes or tears.
Repellents
Using repellents can deter flies from landing on you.
Insect Repellents
Apply insect repellents containing DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus to exposed skin. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions and reapply as needed.
Natural Repellents
Use natural repellents, such as essential oils like citronella, lavender, and peppermint. Apply the oils to your skin or clothing, or use them in a diffuser.
Protective Clothing
Wearing protective clothing can minimize your exposure to flies.
Long Sleeves and Pants
Wear long sleeves and pants when possible, especially in areas with high fly populations. This can reduce the amount of skin exposed to flies.
Hats and Veils
Wear hats and veils to protect your head and face from flies. This can be particularly useful in areas with many biting flies.
Avoid Attractants
Avoiding certain attractants can reduce your attractiveness to flies.
Unscented Products
Use unscented personal care products, such as soaps, lotions, and perfumes. Strong scents can attract flies.
Light-Colored Clothing
Wear light-colored clothing, as dark colors tend to attract flies.
Timing
Adjusting your activities can reduce your exposure to flies.
Avoid Peak Activity Times
Avoid being outdoors during peak fly activity times, such as early morning and late afternoon.
Indoor Activities
Engage in indoor activities during peak fly activity times.
Additional Tips
Consider these additional tips for preventing flies from landing on you.
Fans
Use fans to create a breeze, as flies have difficulty flying in windy conditions.
Fly Paper and Traps
Use fly paper and traps to catch flies in your vicinity. Place them in areas where flies are common.
Professional Pest Control
Consider professional pest control services for severe fly infestations. Pest control professionals can identify the source of the infestation and implement effective control measures. You can find reliable pest control services through flyermedia.net.
7. Effective Fly Control Methods for Your Home
Effective fly control methods for your home involve a combination of prevention, sanitation, and targeted treatments. Implementing these strategies can significantly reduce fly populations and create a more comfortable living environment.
Prevention
Preventing flies from entering your home is the first step in effective fly control.
Seal Entry Points
Seal cracks and holes in walls, windows, and doors to prevent flies from entering your home. Use caulk or weather stripping to close gaps.
Install Screens
Install screens on windows and doors to keep flies out. Ensure that the screens are in good condition and free of holes or tears.
Sanitation
Maintaining good sanitation practices can eliminate food sources and breeding grounds for flies.
Clean Garbage Cans
Regularly clean and empty garbage cans to remove food scraps and odors that attract flies. Use a disinfectant to kill bacteria and remove residue.
Clean Up Spills
Immediately clean up food and drink spills to prevent flies from being attracted to the residue. Use a disinfectant to kill bacteria and remove odors.
Manage Pet Waste
Promptly clean up pet waste to prevent flies from using it as a food source and breeding ground. Dispose of waste properly.
Targeted Treatments
Targeted treatments can help eliminate existing fly populations.
Fly Traps
Use fly traps to catch and kill flies. Various types of fly traps are available, including sticky traps, light traps, and bait traps.
Sticky Traps
Sticky traps are coated with an adhesive that traps flies when they land on them. Place them in areas where flies are common, such as near windows and doors.
Light Traps
Light traps use ultraviolet light to attract flies, which are then electrocuted or trapped. Place them in areas where flies are common, such as kitchens and garages.
Bait Traps
Bait traps contain a bait that attracts flies, which then enter the trap and drown or become trapped. Place them in areas where flies are common, such as near garbage cans.
Insecticides
Use insecticides to kill flies. Various types of insecticides are available, including sprays, aerosols, and foggers.
Sprays
Insecticide sprays can be used to kill flies on contact. Apply them to areas where flies are common, such as walls, ceilings, and around windows and doors.
Aerosols
Aerosol insecticides release a fine mist that kills flies on contact. Use them in enclosed spaces, such as rooms and closets.
Foggers
Insecticide foggers release a fog that kills flies in an entire room. Use them in areas with heavy fly infestations.
Natural Fly Control Methods
Consider using natural fly control methods to avoid the use of harsh chemicals.
Essential Oils
Use essential oils, such as citronella, lavender, and peppermint, to repel flies. Apply the oils to your skin or clothing, or use them in a diffuser.
Vinegar Traps
Create vinegar traps by filling a jar with apple cider vinegar and adding a few drops of dish soap. The vinegar attracts flies, and the soap breaks the surface tension, causing them to drown.
Herbs
Grow herbs, such as basil, lavender, and mint, around your home to repel flies. These herbs emit odors that flies find offensive.
Professional Pest Control Services
Consider professional pest control services for severe fly infestations. Pest control professionals can identify the source of the infestation and implement effective control measures.
8. DIY Fly Traps: A Practical Guide
DIY fly traps are a cost-effective and environmentally friendly way to control fly populations in your home. Several types of traps can be easily made with common household items.
Vinegar Trap
A vinegar trap is a simple and effective way to catch flies.
Materials Needed
- A jar or plastic bottle
- Apple cider vinegar
- Dish soap
Instructions
- Pour a small amount of apple cider vinegar into the jar or bottle.
- Add a few drops of dish soap.
- Mix gently.
- Place the trap in an area where flies are common.
The vinegar attracts flies, and the dish soap breaks the surface tension, causing them to drown.
Fruit Trap
A fruit trap is another easy way to catch flies.
Materials Needed
- A jar or plastic container
- Overripe fruit (such as bananas, apples, or peaches)
- Plastic wrap
- Rubber band
- Toothpick
Instructions
- Place the overripe fruit in the jar or container.
- Cover the opening with plastic wrap.
- Secure the plastic wrap with a rubber band.
- Poke a few small holes in the plastic wrap with a toothpick.
- Place the trap in an area where flies are common.
The fruit attracts flies, which enter the trap through the holes but cannot escape.
Sugar Water Trap
A sugar water trap is a sweet way to catch flies.
Materials Needed
- A jar or plastic bottle
- Sugar
- Water
- Dish soap
Instructions
- Mix sugar and water in the jar or bottle to create a sweet solution.
- Add a few drops of dish soap.
- Mix gently.
- Place the trap in an area where flies are common.
The sugar water attracts flies, and the dish soap breaks the surface tension, causing them to drown.
Soda Bottle Trap
A soda bottle trap is a creative way to recycle and catch flies.
Materials Needed
- A plastic soda bottle
- Sugar water or vinegar
- Dish soap
Instructions
- Cut the top third off the soda bottle.
- Invert the top third and place it inside the bottom part, creating a funnel.
- Pour sugar water or vinegar into the bottom part.
- Add a few drops of dish soap.
- Place the trap in an area where flies are common.
The flies enter the trap through the funnel but cannot escape.
Paper Cone Trap
A paper cone trap is a simple and effective way to catch flies.
Materials Needed
- A jar or glass
- Paper
- Tape
- Bait (such as vinegar, sugar water, or overripe fruit)
Instructions
- Roll the paper into a cone shape.
- Tape the cone to secure it.
- Place the cone inside the jar or glass, with the narrow end pointing down.
- Add bait to the jar.
- Place the trap in an area where flies are common.
The flies enter the trap through the wide end of the cone but cannot escape through the narrow end.
9. Professional Fly Control Services
When DIY methods are insufficient, professional fly control services can provide effective and long-lasting solutions. Pest control professionals have the knowledge, experience, and tools to identify the source of fly infestations and implement targeted treatments. For those in the Daytona Beach area, you can find reliable services through flyermedia.net.
Benefits of Professional Fly Control
Professional fly control services offer several benefits over DIY methods.
Expertise
Pest control professionals have the expertise to identify the species of flies infesting your home and determine the source of the infestation. This allows them to implement targeted treatments that are most effective for the specific situation.
Effective Treatments
Pest control professionals have access to professional-grade insecticides and equipment that are not available to the general public. These treatments are more effective and can provide long-lasting control.
Safety
Pest control professionals are trained to handle insecticides safely and effectively. They can minimize the risk of exposure to harmful chemicals for you, your family, and your pets.
Time Savings
Hiring a pest control professional can save you time and effort. They can quickly identify the problem and implement effective solutions, allowing you to focus on other tasks.
Signs You Need Professional Help
Several signs indicate that you may need professional fly control services.
Large Fly Population
If you have a large fly population in your home that is not responding to DIY methods, it is time to call a professional. A large infestation can be difficult to control without professional help.
Persistent Fly Problem
If you have a persistent fly problem that keeps coming back despite your best efforts, it is time to call a professional. They can identify the source of the infestation and implement long-term solutions.
Unknown Source of Infestation
If you cannot determine the source of the fly infestation, it is time to call a professional. They can use their expertise to locate the source and implement targeted treatments.
Health Concerns
If you have health concerns related to the fly infestation, it is time to call a professional. Flies can transmit diseases, and a professional can help eliminate the risk.
Choosing a Pest Control Company
Choosing a reputable and experienced pest control company is essential for effective fly control.
Research Companies
Research pest control companies in your area and read reviews from other customers. Look for companies with a good reputation and a proven track record.
Check Credentials
Check the credentials of the pest control company, including licenses and certifications. Ensure that the company is properly licensed and insured.
Ask for References
Ask the pest control company for references from previous customers. Contact the references and ask about their experience with the company.
Get a Quote
Get a quote from several pest control companies before making a decision. Compare the quotes and choose the company that offers the best value.
Discuss Treatment Options
Discuss treatment options with the pest control company and ask about the risks and benefits of each option. Choose the treatment option that is most effective and safe for your situation.
Preparing for a Pest Control Visit
Preparing for a pest control visit can help ensure that the treatment is effective and safe.
Clean Your Home
Clean your home before the pest control visit to remove food scraps and debris that could attract flies.
Remove Pets and Plants
Remove pets and plants from the treatment area to protect them from exposure to insecticides.
Follow Instructions
Follow the instructions provided by the pest control professional carefully. This may include leaving your home during the treatment and ventilating the area afterward.
10. Understanding Fly Species and Their Behavior
Different species of flies exhibit unique behaviors and preferences, which can influence the effectiveness of control methods. Identifying the specific type of fly infesting your home can help you tailor your approach for better results.
Common House Fly (Musca domestica)
The common house fly is one of the most prevalent fly species found in homes.
Appearance
House flies are typically gray with four dark stripes on their thorax. They are about ¼ inch long and have reddish eyes.
Behavior
House flies are attracted to decaying organic matter, garbage, and food scraps. They feed by regurgitating saliva onto solid food and then sucking up the liquefied material.
Habitat
House flies are commonly found in homes, gardens, and areas with poor sanitation. They breed in garbage, manure, and other decaying organic matter.
Fruit Fly (Drosophila melanogaster)
Fruit flies are small flies that are attracted to overripe or fermenting fruits and vegetables.
Appearance
Fruit flies are small, about ⅛ inch long, and have reddish-brown bodies and red eyes.
Behavior
Fruit flies are attracted to the odors emitted by overripe or fermenting fruits and vegetables. They lay their eggs on these materials, and the larvae feed on the decaying matter.
Habitat
Fruit flies are commonly found in kitchens, grocery stores, and other areas where fruits and vegetables are stored.
Drain Fly (Psychodidae)
Drain flies, also known as moth flies, are small, fuzzy flies that are often found near drains and sewers.
Appearance
Drain flies are small, about ⅛ inch long, and have fuzzy bodies and wings. They are typically gray or brown in color.
Behavior
Drain flies breed in standing water and organic matter that accumulates in drains and sewers. The larvae feed on this material, and the adults are often seen resting on walls and ceilings near drains.
Habitat
Drain flies are commonly found in bathrooms, kitchens, and other areas with drains and sewers.
Blow Fly (Calliphoridae)
Blow flies are large, metallic-colored flies that are attracted to carrion and decaying meat.
Appearance
Blow flies are large, about ½ inch long, and have metallic-colored bodies that are typically blue, green, or black.
Behavior
Blow flies are attracted to the odors emitted by carrion and decaying meat. They lay their eggs on these materials, and the larvae feed on the decaying flesh.
Habitat
Blow flies are commonly found near dead animals, garbage, and other sources of decaying meat.
Phorid Fly (Phoridae)
Phorid flies, also known as humpbacked flies, are small flies that are attracted to decaying organic matter and sewage.
Appearance
Phorid flies are small, about ⅛ inch long, and have a distinctive humpbacked appearance. They are typically brown or black in color.
Behavior
Phorid flies are attracted to decaying organic matter and sewage. They breed in these materials, and the larvae feed on the decaying matter.
Habitat
Phorid flies are commonly found near sewers, garbage disposals, and other areas with decaying organic matter.
11. FAQ About Flies
Here are some frequently asked questions about flies and their behavior.
Why are flies so annoying?
Flies are annoying because they constantly buzz around, land on surfaces, and transmit diseases. Their persistent presence can be irritating and disruptive.
What attracts flies to my house?
Flies are attracted to food scraps, garbage, pet waste, standing water, and other sources of decaying organic matter.
How can I keep flies away from my food?
You can keep flies away from your food by covering it with a lid or plastic wrap, storing it in the refrigerator, and keeping your kitchen clean.
Are flies dangerous?
Yes, flies can be dangerous because they can transmit diseases, contaminate food, and cause allergic reactions.
What diseases do flies carry?
Flies can carry diseases such as typhoid fever, cholera, dysentery, E. coli infection, salmonellosis, shigellosis, trachoma, and yaws.
How can I get rid of flies in my house?
You can get rid of flies in your house by using fly traps, insecticides, natural repellents, and professional pest control services.
What are some natural ways to repel flies?
Some natural ways to repel flies include using essential oils, vinegar traps, and herbs.
How can I prevent flies from entering my house?
You can prevent flies from entering your house by sealing cracks and holes, installing screens on windows and doors, and keeping your surroundings clean.
What is the best way to clean up pet waste to prevent flies?
The best way to clean up pet waste to prevent flies is to promptly collect and dispose of it in a sealed container.
When should I call a professional pest control service for flies?
You should call a professional pest control service for flies if you have a large fly population, a persistent fly problem, an unknown source of infestation, or health concerns related to the fly infestation.
By understanding why flies land on you and implementing effective control methods, you can create a more comfortable and healthy environment. For more information and resources, visit flyermedia.net.
