How to Identify House Flies and Control Measures
The Pesky House Fly: A Missouri Menace
Identification of House Flies
House flies are a common household pest, particularly in warm, humid climates like Missouri. They are easily recognizable by their gray and black striped bodies and their large, compound eyes. These flies are typically about 1/4 inch long and have a short lifespan of about 20-30 days.
Biology and Habits
House flies are prolific breeders, laying hundreds of eggs in decaying organic matter such as manure, garbage, and rotting food. These eggs hatch into larvae, which pupate before emerging as adult flies.
Adult house flies are attracted to various odors, including food, garbage, and animal waste. They are also drawn to dark, moist areas, such as basements and crawl spaces. Once inside a home, house flies can quickly become a nuisance, buzzing around and landing on food and surfaces.
Diseases and Hazards
House flies are known to transmit a variety of diseases, including:
- Typhoid fever: A bacterial infection that causes fever, headache, and abdominal pain.
- Dysentery: An infection that causes diarrhea and abdominal cramps.
- Cholera: A bacterial infection that causes severe diarrhea and dehydration.
- Conjunctivitis: An inflammation of the conjunctiva, the clear membrane covering the eye’s white part.
These flies pick up disease-causing bacteria on their feet and bodies as they feed on decaying matter. They then transfer these bacteria to food and surfaces, potentially contaminating them.
Historical Impact
Throughout history, house flies have played a significant role in the spread of disease. During the Middle Ages, they were responsible for the spread of numerous epidemics, including the Black Death. Houseflies have recently continued to be a significant public health concern, especially in developing countries.
Prevention and Control
To prevent house fly infestations, it is important to practice good sanitation habits:
- Clean up spills and food crumbs promptly.
- Take out the trash regularly.
- Store food in airtight containers.
- Repair any cracks or holes in screens and windows.
- Keep garbage cans clean and tightly covered.
- Compost food scraps properly.
Additionally, there are several steps you can take around your home to deter house flies:
- Plant insect-repelling plants, such as lavender and mint.
- Use natural fly repellents, such as citronella candles and essential oil diffusers.
- Set up fly traps or bait stations.
Professional Pest Control: A Wise Investment
While these preventive measures can help reduce house flies, a professional pest control service, such as ZipZap Termite & Pest Control, can provide comprehensive and effective solutions.
Professional pest control technicians have the knowledge and experience to identify and eliminate infestations. They can also provide ongoing preventative services to keep your home fly-free.
Choosing a reputable pest control company protects your family’s health and well-being and ensures a pest-free environment.
Don’t let house flies ruin your Missouri summer. Contact ZipZap Termite & Pest Control today for expert advice and effective solutions.
Jeffery Preece, BCE,PHE
Jeffery Preece, Owner and Technical Director at ZipZap Termite & Pest Control. He is a Board Certified Entomologist and a Public Health Entomology Certificate Holder.
