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Flesh Flies

Flesh flies are often mistaken for houseflies due to their coloration and markings. However, their gray-checkered abdomens are distinctively larger than those of the housefly. A typical flesh fly also exhibits three dark stripes along the prothorax and four distinct bristles atop the thorax. An extra row of bristles is found beneath the flesh fly's wings and yet another can be found at each side of the thorax. Flesh flies measure approximately 10 to 13 millimeters from end to end. Larvae are yellow in color, with pointed heads. Along with bottle and blowflies, flesh flies prove useful to forensic entomologists. These fly larvae may assist in pinpointing time of death.

Flesh flies reproduce on decaying vegetable items, animal flesh, carcasses, garbage and excrement. Although flesh flies do not bite and are not carriers of disease, their feeding habits can become a nuisance. However, larvae can also prove beneficial to humans, as they prey on the eggs and larvae of other pests such as grasshoppers, blowflies, houseflies, spiders and snails. Flesh flies are rarely found in homes or restaurants. Infestations in these locations are most likely due to a different fly species.

Black Flies

Cluster Flies

Cluster Flies Remedies

Life Cycle of Flesh Flies

Green Flies

Horn Flies