Flies & Mosquitoes
House Fly
The most common fly around homes and businesses. It breeds in garbage and organic waste and spreads germs as it lands on food.
Quick facts
- Size
- 6–7 mm
- Colour
- Grey with four dark stripes on the back
- Active season
- Spring to fall
- Where found
- Kitchens, garbage areas, barns, restaurants
How to Identify
- Grey body with four dark stripes on the back
- Large reddish eyes
- Sponge-like mouthparts
Signs to Look For
- Flies landing on food and surfaces
- Small dark "fly specks" on walls and light fixtures
- Maggots in garbage or organic waste
Why It Matters
- Known to carry bacteria such as E. coli and salmonella
- Contaminate food by landing and feeding on it
- Breed quickly in warm weather
Prevention Tips
- Keep garbage sealed and removed often
- Repair screens and keep doors closed
- Clean up pet waste and compost promptly
More Flies & Mosquitoes
Related Pests
Moderate risk
Bottle Fly
Shiny, metallic green or blue flies (also called blow flies) that breed in garbage and dead animals.
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Low risk
Cluster Fly
Slow, sluggish flies that pack into attics and wall voids each fall, then appear on sunny windows.
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Moderate risk
Drain Fly
Small, fuzzy, moth-like flies (also called moth flies or sewage flies) that breed in the slimy film inside drains and sewer lines.
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Moderate risk
Fruit Fly
Tiny tan flies with red eyes that breed in ripe fruit, drains and anywhere sugary liquids collect.
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