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A Buzzworthy Read: Everything You Need to Know About the Lifespan of Flies

January 19, 2024

By Rachel Maldonado

A Buzzworthy Read: Everything You Need to Know About the Lifespan of Flies

Flies – we all know them, we all hate them. But have you ever stopped to wonder about the lifespan of a fly?

How long do these pesky insects really live? 

In this article, we’re diving deep into the fascinating world of fly life expectancy. From the humble beginnings of a fly’s egg to its eventual demise, we’re covering everything you need to know about the lifespan of these buzzing bugs. 

And believe us when we say, it’s a buzz-worthy read that you don’t want to miss!

How Long Do Flies Live?

The average lifespan of a fly is influenced by a few factors, such as the species and the environment they live in. 

But as a general rule, most flies live out their entire lifecycle for a few weeks to a few months. With that said, some species, like the fruit fly, can live for several months.

Interestingly, the lifespan of a fly can also be influenced by the weather. In hotter temperatures, flies tend to mature faster and have a shorter lifespan. On the other hand, cooler temperatures slow down fly development, leading to a longer lifespan.

Why is the Fly Lifespan a Problem?

Flies have a lifespan that ranges from a few days to several weeks, depending on a variety of factors like temperature, humidity, and access to food and water. 

They will lay their eggs in decaying organic matter like garbage and animal feces, and their larvae feed on that until they mature into adult flies.

Flies reproduce at a rapid rate, which can make them extremely difficult to control once they’ve set up shop in your home. Fruit flies and drain flies are notorious for this. If you’re struggling with an infestation, it might be best to bring in the big guns – in other words, a reliable pest control company.

To make matters worse, it’s important to remember that some flies can carry diseases from place to place and pose some seriously dangerous health risks. In areas where food is prepared or consumed, it’s especially important to take measures to prevent flies from hanging out in your space. 

Preventing Flies from Causing Problems in Your Home

From buzzing around our heads to contaminating our food, flies can be a real pain to deal with. 

Here are some tips to help you prevent these pests from invading your personal space – and causing unwanted mischief. 

Keep it Clean

The first and most important step in preventing flies from causing problems in your home is to keep it clean. Flies are attracted to filth, so if your home is dirty and cluttered, it’s like an open invitation for them to come in and make themselves at home. 

Even a small amount of mess can attract flies. Make sure to clean up any spills, crumbs, or other food debris as soon as possible. Take out the trash regularly and keep your kitchen and bathroom surfaces clean. 

And don’t forget to clean your pets’ living areas, too, since flies are attracted to pet waste as well.

Seal Up Your Home

Another way to keep flies out of your home is to seal it up as much as possible. Check your windows and doors for any gaps or cracks where flies might be able to sneak in. Use weather stripping or caulking to seal up these gaps. 

Use Natural Fly Repellents

Natural fly repellents are an excellent way to deter flies without using harmful chemicals. A mixture of equal parts water and vinegar can be sprayed in areas where flies are present. 

Though there’s not a ton of science to back them up, many people swear by natural remedies like cloves and essential oils (namely eucalyptus and peppermint). There’s no harm in giving them a try – they add a lovely fragrance to the air, to say the least.

Don’t Leave Doors and Windows Open 

It may seem obvious, but leaving doors and windows open is just asking for trouble. Flies can easily make their way into your home if given the opportunity. 

If you need to open windows or doors for ventilation, make sure to install screens. This allows fresh air to circulate while keeping flies out.

Install Screens on Windows and Doors

In addition to actually installing some screens, you also need to make sure they are in good condition. Check for any holes or tears and replace them if necessary. Flies can find their way into your home through even the smallest of holes, so it’s crucial to keep these barriers intact.

How to Cut the Lifespan of a Fly Short

If you’re looking to cut a fly’s lifespan short (because, let’s face it, flies can be annoying little buggers!), the quickest and most effective way is to call in the pest control professionals.

And who better to call than the experts at Hawx Pest Control? With years of experience and a track record of satisfied customers who feel like family, we know how to get rid of those pesky flies that seem to have taken up residence in your home.

But why stop at flies? We’re equipped to handle all sorts of critters, from spiders to roaches to rodents. And with our preventative maintenance plans, we can help keep those pests from coming back. Think of us as your personal army against creepy crawlies.

So give us a call and join the Hawx Pest Control family.

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