What are Phorid Flies?
Phorid flies are a small fly species with adults growing to between 1/16th and 1/8th of an inch in length. They are dark brown to black and are commonly referred to as “humpbacked flies” because their arched thorax gives them a humpbacked appearance. Though slightly smaller than fruit flies, the two species are often confused due to their similarities in appearance.
Phorid flies are often identified by their distinctive jerky and short flight pattern. In many instances, they will run across a surface instead of taking flight. They feed on moist, decaying organic matter.
Are Phorid Flies Dangerous?
Because they feed and lay their eggs on decaying organic matter, phorid flies can be a dangerous pest. They spend much of their time in unsanitary locations, such as in sink drains, in garbage bins, and on animal feces. If they get into your home or business, they can spread the harmful bacteria and diseases that they pick up in these locations onto all of the areas they touch, including food and food prep areas.
Why Do I Have a Phorid Fly Problem?
A phorid fly problem begins outside your home. Phorid flies are attracted to moist, decaying matter, so any areas around your property that get a lot of moisture and have plenty of organic matter are going to attract these flies. They are also attracted to light, which means they can be drawn towards your house at any time, day or night.
Once around the exterior of your house, phorid flies can enter your home through small spaces found around windows and doors, and through tiny gaps found in the foundation. Phorid flies are partial to the decaying organic matter that is often found in the drains of sinks and bathtubs. These flies thrive in moist areas, so a water leak under the foundation, behind a wall, or in a crawl space can attract phorid flies to your property and allow their populations to flourish.
How Do I Get Rid of Phorid Flies?
In addition to reducing areas of moisture and organic debris found in and around your property, getting help from a pest control expert that has experience eliminating these pests is the most effective way to get rid of an infestation. At All-American Pest Control, we can help you find and eliminate all phorid flies and other common household pests from your home through our year-round Perimeter Plus Pest Control program or our Green Choice pest control program.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Get Rid of Phorid Flies Myself?
The best way to safely and completely get rid of phorid flies and prevent a re-infestation is to get help from a professional phorid fly control expert. Do-it-yourself pesticides are often dangerous if not mixed or placed properly, are often ineffective, should never be used around food, and do nothing to help prevent a future re-infestation. If phorid flies have infested your home, contact the pest control experts at All-American Pest Control today.
Why Choose All-American Pest Control?
All-American Pest Control has over 60 years of pest control experience, and we know the time, effort, and patience it takes to solve any pest problem, including problems with disease-spreading phorid flies. By choosing All-American Pest Control, you can be sure that you will receive quality services, thorough treatment, and a commitment to solving your pest problem by our trained, experienced, and friendly pest control experts in Nashville and Middle Tennessee.
We offer several treatment options to ensure your home remains free of phorid flies. Whether you want basic year-round protection with our Perimeter Plus plan or a Complete Care Bundle to stop every pest you can think of (and probably some you haven’t even thought of!), All-American provides the services you need for great home pest protection in Tennessee.
How can I prevent problems with phorid flies in the future?
The following phorid fly prevention tips can help to reduce problems with these flies in your home:
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Repair any leaky pipes or fixtures in your home
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Make sure that gutters are directing water away from your house
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Clean up organic debris in your yard and landscaping
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Regularly clean out debris that has built up in your home’s sink drains
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Seal even the smallest cracks or crevices found in your home’s foundation
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Caulk any gaps found around windows and doors
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If you have pets, clean up their feces on a regular basis
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Store food in the refrigerator or in sealed containers instead of out in the open on counters or tables
By taking simple steps to reduce moisture, seal entry points, and eliminate decaying matter, you can help prevent a phorid fly infestation in your home.