Flesh flies typically do not bite humans, despite their name suggesting they might. While they are attracted to organic materials and may feed on juices from live animals, they primarily target decayed meat, decomposing organic waste, and open wounds caused by animals.
Biology and Habitat
Flesh flies belong to the family Sarcophagidae, which are commonly referred to as flesh flies. These flies are ovoviviparous, meaning they do not lay eggs but give birth to live larvae. The female flesh fly deposits her hatched or hatching maggots onto flesh, organic debris, carrion, feces, or rotting plant materials. She directly lays the maggots on these areas, where they develop into adult flies.
Diet and Food Source
The diet of flesh flies includes various decomposing organic materials, such as carrion, feces, and organic waste, as well as decaying vegetables and excrement. They may also feed on other insects, especially during their larval stage. While adults mainly feed on liquids from animal bodies and organic substances, larvae require protein to develop and are often laid on carrion, dung, or sweet plant foods (including fruit, nuts, and artificial foodstuffs).
Are Flesh Flies Dangerous?
Flesh flies that infest homes are typically not a threat to humans, except for any potential for bacterial contamination from open wounds or wounds caused by animals with flesh fly infestations. These flies rarely carry harmful diseases or bacteria that are transmissible to humans. However, any infestation should be quickly addressed due to their potential to contaminate food and food preparation surfaces.
Why They Are Known as Fleshy Flies
The name "fleshy flies" comes from their habit of laying their larvae in the flesh of decomposing animals, which is not unlike the behavior of other fly species. This reproductive strategy makes it difficult to interrupt the development of these flies, as their offspring are already in a feeding stage when the parent deposits them.
Professional Control
If flesh flies enter your home, it is wise to consult a pest control professional who can safely and effectively control the infestation using professional pest control methods tailored to your specific situation. Modern Pest Control offers affordable, effective, and modern residential pest control treatments to help keep your home free of flesh flies., flesh flies typically avoid humans but can become a problem indoors due to their attraction to organic debris and bacteria. If you suspect a flesh fly infestation, it's important to act promptly to prevent the spread of bacteria and to ensure the health of your family and home.
Flesh flies may appear scary due to their bloodthirsty reputation, but in reality, they are more of a nuisance than a health risk, especially when controlled. By maintaining proper hygiene and practicing good sanitation practices, you can prevent flesh fly infestations and enjoy a healthier living environment.
References
- Alcock, A. (1911). Entomology for Medical Officers. London: Gurney & Jackson.
- Richards, O. W.; Davies, R.G. (1977). Imms' General Textbook of Entomology: Volume 1: Structure, Physiology and Development Volume 2: Classification and Biology. Berlin: Springer. ISBN 0-412-61390-5.
- "Thomas Pape"
