Orkin Exterminator & Termite Control

Bottle flies are common, large flies known for their metallic blue or green color. These flies create a buzzing sound while flying and are scavengers that feed on decaying meat or organic substances. They are transmitters of diseases and are considered to be pests.

A female bottle fly can lay up to 180 eggs at time, which are pale yellow or gray in color. Resulting larvae measure between 10 and 14 millimeters in length and hatch within two the three days, depending on temperature. Within two to 10 days, larvae seek pupation sites, from which they eventually emerge as adult flies. Bottle flies breed in damp, organic matter such as dead animals.

Bottle flies are also good pollinators. They often pollinate flowers with strong odors, such as pawpaws and goldenrod. When food sources are diminished, bottle flies feed upon the nectar of these flowers in order to produce healthy eggs.

Bottles flies are typically found outdoors. If a large number of bottles flies are found inside, an indoor breeding site may have been established. To eliminate bottle flies, it is important to implement stringent sanitation measures, which include cleaning garbage containers and making sure that the lids are seated tightly.