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Fly Anatomy

A common fly

A common fly

The head of the fly contains the eyes, antennae and mouthparts. The common housefly liquefies food with its saliva before the mouthparts are used in a sponging, mopping capacity. The antennae provide flies with their primary source of smell and often are different between males and females. The housefly's compound eyes are some of the most complex of the insect world, allowing them to see a significant radius around their body. This makes flies difficult to surprise or swat.

Flies have a pair of fully developed wings on the thorax, and a knobby, vestigial second pair of wings, called halteres, that are used primarily for balance. The fly's six legs also connect to the thorax and are made of five segments. The housefly has a hard exoskeleton that protects it from moisture loss. Houseflies use the hairs on their bodies to taste and to smell.

Biting Flies

Flies and Dogs

Identify Flies

Removal of Flies From Pets

Resources

Protect Your Home From Flies

How to Identify Drain Flies | What Causes Drain Flies

Drain fly illustration

Fruit Fly Facts | Get Rid of Fruit Flies in the House

Fruit fly illustration

I found maggots in my bedroom

Q

I have searched everywhere in the bedroom but cannot find a source or additional bugs. What are they?

Why are there maggots in my kitchen?

Q

We have found maggots in the corners of the kitchen floor. Where could they come from and why are they here?

What are these tiny black worms in the shower?

Q

We clean our drains and shower tile often. Why do we still have these worms and how can we get rid of them?

Where Do Fruit Flies Come From?

Garbage Flies

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Horsefly Bites

Fruit Fly Reproduction Rate Data

What are these small, black, flying insects in my laundry room?

Q

I’ve noticed some flying insects have invaded my laundry room in the last few weeks. The only way to describe them is that they look like flies, but a bit smaller. They’re easy to kill, but they keep coming.

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