|
Description: The typical house fly is dark gray with
thin, transparent wings. The adult fly is about 1/8 to 1/4-inch
long. During their lifetime (from egg to larva to pupa to adult)
house flies take on various shapes. In the larva or maggot stage,
flies resemble greasy white worms.
Habits: House flies are attracted to a variety of warm,
moist substances from animal feces to human food and garbage.
During the day, house flies are often found resting on walls,
floors and various objects. At night, they tend to rest above
5 feet on ceilings, hanging plants, ceiling fans, etc. However,
they always stay near their food supply.
Potential hazards: Each time a house fly lands, whether
on a kitchen counter or on food at picnics or backyard barbecues,
it excretes and regurgitates its food for nourishment. Diseases
known to be spread by flies include typhoid fever, diarrhea,
tuberculosis, salmonellosis and cholera.
Control: Identify the type and level of fly infestation.
For control, locate and eliminate fly breeding areas such as
garbage cans, compost heaps, pet feeding and pet elimination
areas. The use of an insecticide may be necessary.
Prevention:
- Step up sanitation practices to eliminate fly breeding areas.
Pay particular attention to trash collection areas and garbage
cans.
- Keep all entrances tightly sealed and screened (windows,
doors, vent holes etc.).
- Light traps or sticky-surface strips can help monitor fly
populations.
|
