Under optimal temperatures some species of flies can develop from egg to adult in as little as seven days. An adult female can lay several batches of eggs over her lifetime. Each batch of eggs typically contains over 100 eggs.
These pests breed in animal wastes, carrion, garbage and decaying organic material from which they can pick up bacteria and viruses that may cause human diseases. In addition, adult stable flies (also known as “biting flies”) feed on the blood of mammals and can give a painful bite.
Because flies breed and mature so quickly, it is recommended that control efforts concentrate on elimination at the larval stage. Elimination at the adult stage is helpful too, as it reduces egg laying and the risk of disease. Interestingly some methods are more effective for some species than others. And what works for one, may not work for another at all.
UC IPM’s Flies: Intergrated Pest Management in and around the Home publication provides information to identify and manage fly populations in and around the home.
