House Fly

Scientific Name: Musca domestica

Order & Family: Diptera: Muscidae

Size: 6 to 7 mm (0.24 to 0.28 inches) in length.

House Fly

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.

Identified on: 5/28/2026