Drain Fly

Scientific Name: Psychoda alternata

Order & Family: Diptera: Psychodidae

Size: 1.5 - 5 mm in length

Drain Fly

Natural Habitat

Humid areas, sewage systems, bathrooms, and kitchens, particularly near drains and standing water.

Diet & Feeding

Larvae feed on organic matter and bacteria found in drain sludge; adults eat nectar and dirty water.

Behavior Patterns

Mainly active at night; they are poor fliers, often seen crawling on walls or taking short, jerky flights near breeding sites.

Risks & Benefits

Primarily a nuisance pest that can indicate sewer leaks; they do not bite humans but may carry bacteria from sewage into living areas.

Identified on: 6/1/2026