Types of fly. Flies are an incredibly diverse group of insects, with over 120,000 known species. They can range in size from tiny midges to large horse flies, and can be found all over the world. Flies can be divided into two main categories based on their behavior and habits: true flies and false flies.

True Flies

False Flies

Types of fly include house flies, fruit flies, and crane flies. There are many other species of fly, including hoverflies, blow–flies, and robber flies. Many of these flies play an important role in the environment, such as pollinating flowers and helping to break down organic matter.

In the United Kingdom, flies can be a nuisance, but they also benefit the environment. This article will discuss the different types of fly species found in the UK, the role they play in the ecosystem, and the potential problems they can cause for humans.

Common British Fly Species

The UK is home to many different species of fly, including the housefly (Musca domestica), the common greenbottle (Lucilia sericata), the cluster fly (Pollenia rudis), the fruit fly (Drosophila melanogaster), and the bluebottle (Calliphora vomitoria). These flies are all relatively small, typically ranging from a few millimetres up to around 12 millimetres in length. They are usually brown or black in colour and have short lifespans, typically surviving for only a few weeks.

House Fly (Musca domestica)

Many homes across Britain commonly find this species of fly. They usually feed on human food, decaying material and excrement.

Flesh Fly (Sarcophaga spp)

Flesh flies are common in British gardens and are attracted to carrion and animal waste. They lay their eggs in decaying material and the larvae feed on the decaying material.

Bluebottle Fly (Calliphora vomitoria)

Bluebottle flies are large, metallic-blue flies that are common throughout Britain. They feed on dead animal matter and excrement and lay their eggs in it.

Cluster Fly (Pollenia rudis)

Cluster flies are small, dark-coloured flies that are often found in large groups, or ‘clusters’. They feed on nectar and pollen and are common in gardens throughout Britain.

Bottle Fly (Phormia regina)

Commonly found in and around rubbish bins, large, hairy flies known as bottle flies feed on decaying organic matter and are drawn to the odors of rotting food.

Flesh Fly (Sarcophaga haemorrhoidalis)

Flesh flies are large, hairy flies that are attracted to carrion and animal waste. They lay their eggs in the decaying material and the larvae feed on the decaying material.

Lesser House Fly (Fannia canicularis)

Small, dark–coloured house flies often inhabit homes and hover around rubbish bins, feeding on decaying organic matter drawn to the odours of rotting food.

Blowfly (Calliphora vicina)

Blowflies are medium-sized, metallic-blue flies that are common throughout Britain. They feed on dead animal matter and excrement and lay their eggs in it.

Mosquito (Culicidae)

Mosquitoes are small, blood-sucking flies that are common in warm, wet areas. They feed on the blood of humans and other animals, transmitting diseases such as malaria and dengue.

Stable Fly (Stomoxys calcitrans)

Stable flies are small, black flies that feed on the blood of humans and other animals. They are found in and around stables, barns, and other areas where animals are kept.

False Stable Fly (Muscina stabulans)

Small, brown false stable flies often inhabit stables and barns, feeding on decaying organic matter and drawn to the smell of rotting food.

Crane Fly (Tipulidae)

Crane flies are large, long-legged flies that are common in gardens throughout Britain. They feed on nectar and pollen, and can often be seen hovering around flowers.

Horse Fly (Tabanidae)

Horse flies are large, dark-coloured flies that feed on the blood of humans and other animals. Additionally, they are commonly seen near ditches and marshlands.

Biting Midges (Ceratopogonidae)

Biting midges are small, dark-coloured flies that feed on the blood of humans and other animals. They are commonly found in damp, marshy areas.

Moth Fly (Psychodidae)

Small, dark–coloured moth flies commonly inhabit bathrooms, kitchens, and other damp areas. They feed on decaying organic matter, drawn to the smells of rotting food.

Plant Bug (Miridae)

Plant bugs are small, green insects that feed on the sap of plants. They are commonly found on leaves and stems, and can cause damage to crops

Fruit Fly (Drosophilidae)

Fruit flies are small, yellowish-brown flies that feed on the juice of ripe fruit. They are common in orchards, gardens, and homes, and can cause significant damage to crops.

Hoverfly (Syrphidae)

Hoverflies are small, black flies that are often seen hovering around flowers. They feed on nectar and pollen and are common in gardens throughout Britain.

Soldier Fly (Stratiomyidae)

Soldier flies often inhabit gardens, medium in size and black. They feed on decaying organic matter and are drawn to the smell of spoiled food.

Marsh Fly (Ephydridae)

Marsh flies are small, dark-coloured flies that are common in wet, marshy areas. They feed on decaying organic matter and are drawn to the smell of rotting food.

Non-Native Fly Species in the UK

A number of non–native fly species exist in the UK in addition to the native fly species. These include the Asian housefly (Musca sorbens), the black soldier fly (Hermetia illucens), and the false stable fly (Stomoxys calcitrans). The native species of flies are more common than these, but these can still be found in some areas of the UK.

Flies as a Nuisance Pest

Conversely, while flies can be beneficial to the environment, they can also be a nuisance to humans. Flies can spread disease, contaminate food, and cause distress in humans. Therefore, steps should be taken to minimize the amount of flies in the home and its surrounding areas. Regularly clean and store food properly, remove sources of standing water, and use fly traps or insecticides to do this.

The Role of Flies in the Ecosystem

Flies are important to the environment as they act as pollinators and help to break down decaying organic matter. Furthermore, native fly species are integral to the health of ecosystems. As such, it is important to take measures to protect native fly species, as well as limit the presence of non–native species.

To sum up, flies are ubiquitous in the UK and, although they can be pesky, they can be advantageous to the environment as well. Consequently, it is essential to undertake steps to reduce the number of flies near the home, as well as safeguard local fly varieties.

Fly Control

Flies are one of the most common and persistent pests found in homes and businesses. Food, moisture, and warmth attract them, and they can quickly become a nuisance in any environment. The presence of flies can lead to health risks, including the transfer of disease-causing bacteria and viruses. Therefore, it is essential to take appropriate measures to control and eradicate flies in order to reduce the chances of food contamination, mitigate the spread of diseases, and avoid exasperation.

Pest Control For Flies

Professionals can help identify the source of the fly infestation and provide tailored insecticide sprays, baits, and traps to control and eliminate the flies. These treatments can target specific areas and create a barrier to prevent future fly problems.

Moreover, in addition to controlling and eliminating flies, pest control services can also provide preventative measures to help keep them away. These measures may include regularly monitoring for fly activity, as well as implementing fly–proofing techniques, such as sealing any cracks and crevices in walls and windows, and installing screens and doors.

Moreover, pest control services can be beneficial in identifying and eradicating other pests, such as rodents and other insects. By taking a comprehensive approach to pest control, you can ensure that your home or business is free from pests and the associated health and safety risks.

Indeed, pest control services are essential for reducing and eliminating fly populations. Furthermore, with the use of these services, it is possible to keep the fly population under control and prevent infestations. Ultimately, the use of pest control services is essential for maintaining a healthy and fly–free environment. Professional pest control services can identify the source of the problem, provide effective solutions, and implement preventative measures. By taking the necessary steps to control and eliminate flies, you can reduce the risk of food contamination, the spread of illness, and general annoyance.