Close-up of a garbage fly - Keep flies away with Kona Coast Pest Control in Kailua Kona

Garbage Fly

Actual Size: 1/8 to 1/4″

Characteristics: Gray in color with four black stripes on the thorax and compound eyes. Covered with small hairs that work as taste organs.

Legs: 6

Antennae: Yes

Wings: Yes

Habitat: Thrive in areas characterized by decaying organic matter such as dumps, sewers, and garbage heaps.

Habits:

  • Also known as house flies.
  • Will lay eggs in dead or decaying matter found in garbage or excrement.
  • Prolific breeders that are capable of laying numerous eggs in suitable environments. 
  • Known to carry and transmit pathogens, bacteria, and viruses.

Garbage Flies in Kailua Kona

Garbage flies, also known as house flies, are easily distinguished by the four elongated stripes on their midsection. These flies lack the ability to bite and have a mouth more suited for sponging up liquid food. Typically, female flies are larger than males and display a visibly wider distance between their red-colored eyes. The bodies of garbage flies are gray with a slight yellow tint, and they also exhibit an upward bend in one of their wing veins. These unique features contribute to the easy recognition of garbage flies in various environments.

Garbage Fly Habitat

During the hotter summer months, garbage flies are commonly found in higher numbers. The laying of eggs takes place in warm, moist, organic materials such as manure, garbage, lawn clippings, decaying vegetables, fruits, and soils containing any of these substances. Under optimal summertime conditions, the development of house flies from egg to adult can be accomplished in as little as 7 days. This accelerated reproductive cycle contributes to the higher prevalence of garbage flies during the hotter periods of the year, emphasizing the need for effective pest management practices to curb their population growth.

Garbage Fly Behaviors, Threats, or Dangers

Garbage flies are considered a nuisance due to their close presence to humans. In certain situations, these flies can harbor various harmful diseases affecting both humans and animals. Their breeding and feeding habits on waste give them the capacity to pick up bacteria, viruses, and fungi, subsequently transferring or spreading them by contaminating food and water upon contact. Instances of food poisoning and even tuberculosis have been reported in severe cases associated with infestations of garbage flies. The inherent risk of disease transmission associated with garbage flies underscores the importance of effective pest control measures and maintaining proper sanitation practices to mitigate health hazards. Always contact a professional fly control expert for help with garbage flies.