Types of Flies

House Fly: One of the most common species, house flies are small (about 6-7 mm) with grayish bodies and large red eyes. They thrive in homes and businesses, especially in areas with food waste.

Fruit Fly: Tiny flies (about 3 mm) with reddish eyes and tan bodies, fruit flies are commonly found near overripe fruits, drains, and garbage disposals.

Drain Fly: Also called sewer flies, these small (2-4 mm) flies have moth-like wings and a fuzzy appearance. They are typically found near drains, sewers, and other moist areas.

Blow Fly: Larger than house flies, blow flies (10-14 mm) have a metallic sheen, usually green or blue, and are often found around decaying organic matter like garbage or animal carcasses.

Fly Behavior

Breeding: Flies lay their eggs in organic matter like garbage, decaying food, and even drains. House flies can lay up to 150 eggs at a time, rapidly increasing infestations.

Feeding: Flies feed on food waste, decaying matter, and even animal feces. Fruit flies are particularly attracted to fermenting fruits and sugary liquids.

Reproduction: Flies reproduce quickly, with eggs hatching into larvae (maggots) in just a day or two. This rapid lifecycle means fly populations can increase quickly.

Signs of Infestation

Sightings: Seeing flies in your home, especially near food, garbage, or drains, is a clear sign of an infestation.

Maggots: Finding maggots (fly larvae) in garbage bins, food waste, or near drains is a strong indication of breeding flies.

Buzzing Sounds: The persistent buzzing sound of flies near windows or lights is a common sign of their presence, especially with larger flies like blow flies.

Dangers/Concerns

Health Risks: Flies are known to spread diseases such as Salmonella, E. coli, and cholera by contaminating food and surfaces. They pick up bacteria on their legs and bodies from garbage, feces, and decaying matter.

Food Contamination: Flies often land on food, transferring bacteria and pathogens. This can lead to foodborne illnesses, especially in commercial food handling environments.

Prevention Tips

Maintain Cleanliness: Regularly clean kitchen counters, garbage bins, and food prep areas. Don’t leave food uncovered and promptly dispose of food waste.

Remove Breeding Sites: Empty garbage bins frequently and ensure drains are clean and unclogged. Keep fruit and vegetables refrigerated to avoid attracting fruit flies.

Seal Entry Points: Use window and door screens to prevent flies from entering, and inspect your home for cracks or gaps where they could gain access.

Fix Leaks: Moisture attracts flies, so fixing leaky pipes or drains and regularly cleaning damp areas like bathrooms or basements can help prevent fly infestations.

Treatment Options

DIY Methods:

• Fly Traps: Sticky fly traps or light traps can capture adult flies. Place traps near windows, doors, or areas of high fly activity.
• Fruit Fly Traps: Use homemade traps with apple cider vinegar or fruit juice to attract and trap fruit flies near kitchen areas.
• Drain Maintenance: Clean drains regularly with a mixture of baking soda and vinegar to remove fly larvae.

Professional Services: AZ Pest Control offers targeted fly control solutions, including treating breeding sites, eliminating larvae, and reducing adult populations. We use safe, eco-friendly treatments that prevent future infestations while ensuring your home or business remains fly-free.

Why Choose AZ Pest Control

At AZ Pest Control, we specialize in fast, effective fly control. Our team conducts a thorough inspection to identify fly species, breeding sites, and entry points. We provide customized treatments tailored to your specific needs, whether it’s a house fly infestation in a residential kitchen or a drain fly problem in a commercial setting. With follow-up services and preventive advice, we help ensure your space remains fly-free.