Properly identify flies to craft control strategies

Nisus

Small flies in homes and commercial facilities often are an indicator of additional problems that must be addressed. While the treatment strategies for most small fly species can be straightforward (such as treating drains, in cracks and crevices, behind wall voids or under equipment), identifying the precise type of fly can also provide pest management professionals (PMPs) with additional information to craft strategies that further assist customers in implementing long-term control efforts.

For example, customers who see the presence of drain flies may have an undetected water leak or have areas where stagnant water has accumulated. Both scenarios provide perfect fly breeding sources. Seeing more fruit flies in an area may indicate a sanitation issue, such as decaying fruit, soiled mop heads or undetected food debris beneath equipment or counters.

While traditional treatment strategies are an option for short-term control, long-term strategies are necessary to build an effective control program.