Other Types of Flies
How many species of flies are there?
There are approximately 120,000 species of flies that have been described by science. The actual number of species in the world is likely to be much larger. Species of flies are grouped into genera and families. Within a family and genus the species may share similar habits and lifestyles such blood feeding or breeding in filth.
Types of Flies that Bite
Depending on the species, either females or both sexes of biting flies feed on blood. Biting fly mouth parts also differ based on feeding strategies. A mosquito uses its needlelike proboscis to suck blood, while larger horse flies use slicing appendages to tear flesh. Biting flies often are most active in warm, humid daytime hours and lay their eggs in decaying organic material such as mulch or even in or near bodies of water.
Types of Filth Flies
While filth flies do not feed on blood, they are extremely unsanitary, feeding and laying their eggs in trash, feces or decaying material. Filth flies are known carriers of over 100 diseases, including cholera and anthrax. Common house flies, drain flies, blow flies and phorid flies are common filth flies, although many other species of filth flies exist. Sanitation is necessary in combating filth fly populations.
Fruit Fly Facts
Fruit flies are an example of a small type of fly. They favor fruits and other sugary, organic substances as feeding and breeding sites. Consumption of infested fruits and vegetables can lead to severe intestinal discomfort.
Types of Flies
Learn how to prevent a black fly infestation and how to get rid of flies.
Also known as attic flies, learn more about these common house flies.
Explore which habitats these flies are attracted to and how to prevent them from becoming a nuisance.
While color may vary, explore how to properly identify crane fly larvae and how to prevent these worm-like creatures.
Often accompanied by painful bites to humans, read about the obvious signs of a deer fly infestation.
With the ability to transfer diseases, discover how serious a face fly infestation can be to livestock.
Find out what attracts flesh flies and how to properly identify different fly species.
Explore the development of flesh flies and their four-phase life cycle from egg to adult.
Mostly related to livestock, learn the signs of a horn fly infestation and how to prevent these types of flies that bite.
Learn how to properly identify a horse fly and the most common signs of a horse fly infestation.
Gain an understanding of these flies and why it’s important to prevent them from becoming a problem.
Discover some house fly control measures that a homeowner may take to avoid these types of flies from becoming an infestation.
How do I get rid of fruit flies in my kitchen?
Fruit flies are attracted to overripe or rotten produce and can often be found hovering around sinks and drains.
Where are these giant house flies coming from?
If you're seeing large flies in your home during Springtime, your home might be infested with cluster flies.
What are these large, black, slow-moving flies in my home?
If your home is full of large, black flies, you may have a cluster fly infestation.
Read about the steps you can take to control a yellow fly infestation and how to get rid of these types of flies in the house.
