Insect

House Fly

House fly infestations are signalled by a distinct ammonia smell from larvae and visible adult flies. They thrive in decaying organic matter and are common in both domestic and commercial environments.

Facts

Name: House Fly, Musca domestica
Life cycle: Complete metamorphosis
Egg: Laid in decomposing organic matter such as rotting vegetation, animal waste, or food refuse. Hatch within 8 to 48 hours depending on temperature
Larvae (Maggots): Whitish, legless, up to 12 mm long. Undergo 3 moults and typically reach pupation within 4–7 days
Pupae: Develop inside reddish-brown puparia over 5–14 days. The case darkens as development progresses
Adult: Approximately 6–7 mm long with a grey thorax marked by four dark longitudinal stripes and a yellowish abdomen. Lifespan ranges from 2 to 4 weeks depending on environmental conditions
Description:
Larvae inhabit semi-liquid organic substrates and migrate to dry, warm locations to pupate. Adults have translucent wings held slightly apart when at rest, short antennae, and compound eyes. Females are typically larger than males and possess a retractable ovipositor for egg-laying. Like all Diptera, house flies have one pair of wings and reduced hindwings (halteres) for balance.
Habitat:
Musca domestica is cosmopolitan, found in urban, suburban, and agricultural settings worldwide. It thrives in environments rich in decomposing organic material, including refuse sites, livestock areas, food processing zones, and domestic kitchens. In temperate climates such as the UK, populations peak during warmer months and may overwinter indoors.