Fly Larva (Maggot)
Scientific Name: Brachycera (Suborder)
Order & Family: Order Diptera, Family Muscidae (Common House Fly) or Calliphoridae (Blow Fly)
Size: 3mm to 12mm (1/8 to 1/2 inch) depending on growth stage.
Natural Habitat
Typically found in decaying organic matter, garbage, animal waste, or damp areas in households.
Diet & Feeding
Scavengers that feed on rotting food, pet waste, or other decomposing organic material.
Behavior Patterns
Larvae go through three 'instar' stages as they grow. They typically prefer dark, moist environments and will migrate to dry, cool spots to pupate into adult flies.
Risks & Benefits
Risks include the spread of bacteria and diseases like salmonella or E. coli from contaminated surfaces. Benefits include their role as decomposers in the ecosystem, quickly breaking down organic waste.
Identified on: 3/31/2026