Flies: What Home and Business Owners Need to Know About These Pests
Flies, those ubiquitous buzzing creatures that seem to appear out of nowhere, are often dismissed as mere annoyances. Yet, these seemingly insignificant insects hold a wealth of secrets that could impact our homes and businesses in ways we might not expect. From their rapid reproduction rates to their potential as disease vectors, flies are far more than just a nuisance.
This is why it’s absolutely necessary to understand the intricate and hidden world of flies, exploring their life cycles, the threats they pose, and the effective strategies for managing these pests. Whether you’re a homeowner or a business owner, understanding the true nature of flies is key to keeping your spaces clean, healthy, and free from these uninvited intruders.
Common Characteristics of Flies: Both Large and Small
Let’s begin with the large species of flies, which are problematic both inside and outside. These large flies, such as the house fly, horse fly, midges, and flesh fly are more of an exterior pest. Meanwhile, small flies, such as fruit flies, phorid flies, drain (or moth) flies, and fungus gnats are generally interior pests – especially in restaurants, food processing, kitchens, and more spaces.
Regardless of their physical characteristics, large and small fly species have several features in common. Both large and small fly species belong to the order Diptera, meaning they have two wings, which distinguishes them from other flying insects. They are also characterized by their compound eyes, antennae, and mouthparts that are adapted for different feeding habits such as sucking, sponging, or piercing.
Both large and small fly species undergo complete metamorphosis, meaning they have four life stages: egg, larva (maggot), pupa, and adult. Additionally, flies, regardless of their size, play important roles in ecosystems, such as pollination, decomposition, and serving as a food source for other animals.
Now, let’s take a look at some of the specifics of the species you’re likely to encounter. These include some familiar and not-so-familiar kinds. Here are their individual characteristics:
- House fly (Musca domestica). A common fly found worldwide, typically measuring 6-7mm in length. It has a grey or black body and feeds on a variety of decaying organic materials.
- Horse fly (Tabanus spp.). Larger than house flies, they can reach up to 1 inch in length. They are known for their painful bites and are attracted to warm, humid climates.
- Midges. Small, delicate flies that resemble mosquitoes but do not bite. They are found near water sources and are attracted to light.
- Flesh fly (Sarcophagidae family). These flies are attracted to decaying organic materials and are often found around carrion, feces, or open wounds. They give birth to live larvae.
- Fruit fly (Drosophila spp.). Tiny flies measuring about 2-3mm in length. They are attracted to ripe or decaying fruits and vegetables and are commonly found in kitchens.
- Phorid fly (Phoridae family). Also known as humpbacked flies, they are small and resemble fruit flies. They are often found in kitchens and bathrooms and are attracted to decaying organic matter.
- Drain fly (Psychodidae family). Also called moth flies, they are small, fuzzy flies often found in bathrooms and kitchens. They are attracted to damp areas and feed on organic matter in drains.
- Fungus gnats. Tiny, dark-colored flies that resemble mosquitoes but are much smaller. They are attracted to moist environments and feed on fungi and organic matter in soil.
Why Homeowners and Business Owners Alike Should Take Flies Seriously
Homeowners and business owners should be concerned about flies getting into their properties for several reasons. Flies are not just a nuisance; they can pose significant threats to both property and health:
- Annoyance and discomfort. The presence of flies can be extremely irritating and uncomfortable, especially in large numbers. They can disrupt the peace of a home or the pleasant atmosphere of a business, potentially driving away customers or guests.
- Rapid reproduction. Flies have a short life cycle but reproduce rapidly. A female housefly, for example, can lay up to 500 eggs in her lifetime, and these eggs can hatch into adult flies in as little as a week under the right conditions. This means a small fly problem can quickly escalate into a major infestation if not dealt with promptly.
- Contamination. Flies feed on decaying organic matter, including feces and rotting food. This means they can easily pick up harmful bacteria and transfer them to other surfaces, leading to contamination. In a restaurant, for instance, this could result in food poisoning incidents, damaging the business’s reputation and potentially leading to legal trouble.
- Disease transmission. Flies are known to carry over 200 pathogens and parasites that can be harmful to humans. These include bacteria like Salmonella and E. coli, which can cause serious foodborne illnesses. Flies can spread these pathogens to food and surfaces they land on, which is a major concern for food businesses and homes alike.
- Damage to property. Some fly species, like the fruit fly, can damage crops and stored food products. In a home, this could mean spoilage of food in your pantry or kitchen. In a business, it could lead to significant financial losses if large quantities of stock are affected.
Additionally, increased pest control costs can easily be a result. Dealing with a fly infestation can be very expensive. It may require hiring a professional pest control service, purchasing fly traps or repellents, and implementing preventative measures. For businesses, these costs can be significant and can eat into profits.
Biggest Benefits of Hiring a Professional Pest Control Service to Deal with Flies
Homeowners and business owners should not rely on DIY treatments for flies for several reasons. Professional pest control services offer a range of benefits that DIY treatments cannot match. Here are some reasons why hiring a professional is a better choice:
- Expertise and experience. Professionals have the knowledge and experience to identify the type of flies infesting a property and the most effective methods to control them. They understand the life cycle of flies and can implement strategies to break the cycle and prevent future infestations.
- Effective and safe treatments. Professional pest control services have access to a range of treatments and techniques that are not available to the general public. These treatments are often more effective and safer than DIY methods. They can use targeted treatments to eliminate flies without harming humans, pets, or the environment.
- Long-term solutions. While DIY methods may offer a quick fix, they often do not address the root cause of the problem. This means that the flies will return. Professional services can identify and address the source of the infestation, providing a long-term solution.
- Time and cost savings. Although professional services may seem more expensive upfront, they can save time and money in the long run. DIY treatments often require multiple applications and may not be effective, leading to wasted time and money. Conversely, professional services often solve the problem more quickly and effectively.
- Prevention strategies. Professional pest control services can also provide advice and strategies to prevent future infestations. This can include recommendations for hygiene practices, structural improvements, and other preventative measures.
Of course, there’s also the peace of mind aspect. Knowing that a professional is handling the problem can really take a load off your shoulders. This is especially important for business owners, as a fly infestation can damage a company’s reputation and lead to lost business.
Keep Your Home Fly-Free with Invader Pest Management!
Flies buzzing around your home can be annoying and unhygienic. If you’re tired of swatting at these unwelcome guests, it’s time to take action. Calling a professional pest control service is the most effective way to deal with a fly infestation, ensuring that your home is fly-free and comfortable once again.
Flies are not just a nuisance; they can also pose health risks to you and your family. These pests can carry disease-causing bacteria and contaminate your food and living spaces. By calling a professional pest control service, you can safeguard your home and loved ones from the potential health hazards associated with fly infestations.
Don’t let flies take over your home. Take action today by calling our professional pest control service and we’ll get rid of these bothersome insects for good. Your property should be a sanctuary free from pests, and our experienced professionals can help you achieve that peace of mind. Say goodbye to flies and hello to a fly-free environment by making the call today.