
Houseflies
Latin Name: Musca domestica
House Flies
House flies (Musca domestica) are one of the most common pests found in homes worldwide. Recognizable by their distinct appearance and habits, these pests can quickly become a nuisance indoors, carrying bacteria and creating unsanitary conditions. Understanding what house flies look like, how they find their way into your home, and how to control them is essential in maintaining a clean and comfortable living environment.
What Do House Flies Look Like?
House flies are small, grayish-black insects measuring about 1/4 inch in length. They have four narrow black stripes running down their thorax, and their bodies are slightly hairy. Their prominent compound eyes are reddish and provide a broad field of vision, making them highly adept at detecting movement. House flies have two wings, which they use to buzz from surface to surface in search of food or breeding areas. Unlike some other pests, house flies lack stingers and cannot bite.
How Do House Flies Get Into Your Home?
House flies are excellent at exploiting even the smallest opportunities to enter your home. Common entry points include:
- Open doors and windows: Flies can zip inside when doors or windows are left open, especially during warmer months.
- Damaged screens: Torn or ill-fitting window and door screens provide easy access.
- Gaps around doors and windows: Cracks or gaps in seals or weather stripping can serve as entryways.
- Rotting or exposed waste: Flies are attracted to food scraps, pet waste, and garbage, which may lure them into your home.
Once inside, house flies seek out food sources, including fruits, vegetables, or other organic matter left on counters. They're particularly drawn to sugary substances and decaying materials, where they can lay eggs.
If house flies are buzzing into your home and disrupting your comfort, it's time to take action. Contact Mares Exterminating today for a comprehensive solution to eliminate house flies and prevent future infestations. Let us help you maintain a clean and pest-free home.