
Community identification
House Fly
Musca domestica
- Order & Family
- Diptera: Muscidae
- Size
- 6 to 7 mm (0.24 to 0.28 inches) in length.
Natural Habitat
Found worldwide in close association with humans, livestock, and decaying organic matter.
Diet & Feeding
Scavengers that consume liquid or semi-liquid food, including decaying organic matter, feces, and human food via regurgitated saliva.
Behavior Patterns
Diurnal insects that are active during the day and rest at night; known for rapid reproduction and high mobility.
Risks & Benefits
Major risk as mechanical vectors for pathogens like Salmonella and E. coli; critical ecosystem benefit as decomposers and food sources for other animals.