Where Do Flies Live and Breed

Fly elimination begins with locating and eliminating the material in which the flies are feeding and breeding.

There are several types of flies found in North American homes. Filth flies include the common housefly, drain flies and sewage flies. They seek moist, dark piles of trash or manure in which to lay their eggs. Fruit flies, as their name implies, are fond of over-ripe fruit or other sugary substances. Some biting flies require a blood meal in order to trigger egg laying.

To exterminate existing fly infestations and to prevent future infestations, eliminate possible breeding sites from your home. Continue sanitation after the infestation has been eliminated to prevent future problems.

There's nothing a filth fly likes less than proper sanitation. Adult flies need a place to lay their eggs, and a clean home and yard just won't appeal to mama fly. Here's how to keep flies from breeding in or near your home.

1. Clean up all pet and animal feces promptly. Any fresh, moist animal feces will draw flies. To keep flies from breeding in your dog's doo-doo, either bury it immediately or use a pooper scooper and plastic bag to remove and seal the feces. Place the bagged waste in a lidded garbage can.

2. Dispose of kitchen scraps and other organic waste properly. When it comes to food waste, the drier the better. Drain any moisture you can from it before throwing it away. Scrape your plates or other leftovers into a plastic garbage bag, tie the bag shut, and put it in a garbage can with a tight fighting lid.

3. If you save kitchen waste for your compost heap, add some sawdust to your scrap bin to help absorb moisture and odors that might attract flies. If your compost pile does not heat up sufficiently, those kitchen scraps may attract breeding flies. Turn your compost pile regularly, and don't put meats or animal waste in your compost bin.

4. Garbage cans and dumpsters are favorite breeding areas for flies. You can significantly reduce fly populations by keeping lids tightly closed on your trash cans, and making sure the cans have no holes. All garbage within the can should be bagged and tied closed. Don't forget to put your garbage out for collection regularly. It's not a bad idea to scrub out your cans now and then, to remove any food or pet waste residue.

5. Recycling cans also attract some filth flies. Rinse empty soda cans, beer bottles, and pet food cans before tossing them in the recycling. If possible, use a lidded recycling container.

6. If you have fruit trees in your yard, pick up any fruit that falls on the ground. Fermenting or overripe fruit provides just the right combination of moist and sweet to attract flies.

7.Indoors, take care not to overwater your houseplants. Prune and discard of any dying plant parts. Fungus gnat larvae feed on fungi that develops in moist soils and on decaying plant matter.

Should an infestation persist, contact your local pest control professional or visit the links below: