Flies are among the most common pests found in Canadian homes, gardens, and commercial spaces. Knowing how to identify flies is crucial for effective pest control, as different species pose varying risks. At IPM Pest Solutions, we help homeowners and businesses recognize fly infestations and implement targeted solutions. This guide covers the most prevalent flies in Canada, their distinguishing features, and why proper identification matters.
How to Identify Flies And Key Characteristics
Flies belong to the order Diptera, meaning “two wings.” Unlike other insects, they have only one pair of functional wings, with the second pair reduced to small balancing organs called halteres. Here’s what to look for when identifying flies:
- Body Shape: Small to medium-sized, with a compact, oval, or elongated body.
- Wings: Transparent or slightly tinted, with visible veins.
- Eyes: Large, often reddish or dark, covering most of the head.
- Legs: Six legs, often covered in tiny hairs that can carry bacteria.
- Behavior: Quick, erratic flying patterns; attracted to food, waste, and moisture.
Why Is It Important to Identify Flies?
Different fly species carry different risks:
Some spread diseases like salmonella and E. coli.
Others, like fruit flies, are mostly nuisance pests.
Certain flies (e.g., drain flies) indicate plumbing issues.
Common Types of Flies in Canada
1. Housefly (Musca domestica)
- Appearance: 6–7 mm long, gray with four dark stripes on the thorax.
- Habitat: Found near garbage, pet waste, and decaying organic matter.
- Risk: Carries pathogens that can contaminate food.
2. Fruit Fly (Drosophila melanogaster)
- Appearance: Tiny (2–3 mm), tan or brown with red eyes.
- Habitat: Drawn to overripe fruit, fermenting liquids, and damp organic material.
- Risk: Rapid breeding can lead to large infestations quickly.
3. Cluster Fly (Pollenia rudis)
- Appearance: Larger (8–10 mm), dark gray with golden hairs.
- Habitat: Invades homes in fall to overwinter in attics and wall voids.
- Risk: Mostly a nuisance; does not breed indoors.
4. Drain Fly (Psychodidae)
- Appearance: Small (2 mm), fuzzy, moth-like wings.
- Habitat: Breeds in slimy drain pipes and sewage systems.
- Risk: Indicates clogged or dirty drains.
5. Horse Fly (Tabanidae)
- Appearance: Large (up to 25 mm), dark-colored with metallic eyes.
- Habitat: Common near livestock and water sources.
- Risk: Painful bites that can transmit diseases to animals.
How to Identify Flies by Their Breeding Sites
Different fly species prefer specific breeding environments:
| Fly Type | Breeding Site |
| Housefly | Rotting food, animal waste, compost |
| Fruit Fly | Overripe fruit, spilled alcohol, trash bins |
| Drain Fly | Slimy drains, septic tanks, standing water |
| Cluster Fly | Soil (as larvae), then homes in adulthood |
| Horse Fly | Damp soil near ponds or marshes |
Finding the source helps in targeted elimination.
Health Risks Associated with Flies
Many flies in Canada can transmit diseases due to their feeding habits:
- Houseflies spread bacteria by landing on food after contacting waste.
- Horse flies can cause allergic reactions with their bites.
- Drain flies indicate unsanitary plumbing conditions.
Signs of a Fly Infestation
Frequent sightings of adult flies.
Maggots in garbage or decaying matter.
Small, dark spots (fly feces) on surfaces.
Buzzing sounds near windows or lights.
How to Prevent Fly Infestations
1. Eliminate Food Sources
- Store food in sealed containers.
- Clean spills immediately.
- Take out trash regularly.
2. Reduce Moisture
- Fix leaky pipes.
- Ensure proper drainage.
- Use dehumidifiers in damp areas.
3. Seal Entry Points
- Install window screens.
- Seal cracks around doors and vents.
- Use weather stripping to close gaps.
4. Professional Pest Control
For persistent infestations, IPM Pest Solutions provides:
Inspection to identify fly species.
Targeted treatments for larvae and adults.
Long-term prevention strategies.
Myths About Flies
Flies only live for 24 hours.
Fact: Most live 2–4 weeks, with some surviving months.
All flies bite.
Fact: Only certain species (e.g., horse flies) bite humans.
Fruit flies come from rotten fruit
Fact: They lay eggs on fermenting material, which hatch into maggots.
When to Call a Professional
Identification of fly species.
Safe, effective treatments.
Prevention plans tailored to your home.
Flies in Canada
Now that you know how to identify flies, you can take steps to prevent infestations. While some species are merely annoying, others pose health risks. For expert assistance in fly control, trust IPM Pest Solutions Canada’s trusted pest management specialists.
