Houseflies

Adult house flies are dark grey and can grow to one-quarter of an inch long. They usually live between 15 and 25 days. Houseflies pupae grow to a size and shape similar to rat droppings and are often mistaken in bin sheds in apartment blocks.

Finding the Breeding Source

A persistent housefly problem almost always indicates a nearby breeding source. Common sources in Dublin homes and businesses include:

• Unsecured or overflowing bins — houseflies can complete their lifecycle from egg to adult in as little as 7-10 days in warm conditions
• Dead animals — a dead rat, mouse, or bird in a wall void, attic, or sub-floor is a common cause of sudden large fly numbers indoors
• Pet waste in gardens — dog faeces left on grass in warm weather is a significant breeding source
• Compost bins — open compost heaps next to the building
• Drain residue in bin storage areas — organic matter accumulating in drainage channels beneath bin storage areas

Removing or securing the breeding source is essential — insecticide treatment without eliminating the source will only provide temporary relief as new adults continue to emerge.