Blow fly

Blow fly

Lucilia sericata

insects

How to Identify

Blow flies are typically metallic blue, green, or bronze in color and range from 1/4 to 1/2 inch in length. They have a robust body and distinct bristles on their backs. The iridescent coloration and buzzing sound make them easily recognizable.

Signs of Infestation

The primary sign of a blow fly infestation is the presence of numerous flies indoors, especially near windows. You may also notice a foul odor indicating a nearby breeding source, such as decaying organic matter or carrion. Maggots, the larvae of blow flies, might be found in garbage bins or pet waste.

Health Risks

Blow flies are vectors of disease and can transmit pathogens to humans through contact with food or surfaces. They can carry bacteria that cause food poisoning and other illnesses, posing a health risk to residents of Myrtle Beach, especially during warmer months when they are most active. They can also cause myiasis (larval infestation) in wounds.

Our Treatment Method

MBPC offers comprehensive blow fly control services for Myrtle Beach homes and businesses. Our licensed technicians will identify and eliminate breeding sites, as well as apply targeted insecticide treatments to control adult fly populations. We use environmentally responsible methods approved by the SC Department of Pesticide Regulation to ensure the safety of your family and pets.

EPA-approved products · Licensed technicians · Satisfaction guaranteed

Prevention Tips

Maintain good sanitation practices by properly disposing of garbage and keeping outdoor areas clean in your Myrtle Beach home. Ensure that garbage bins have tight-fitting lids to prevent blow flies from accessing potential breeding sites. Regularly clean pet waste and consider professional pest control services from MBPC to manage fly populations around your property.

Habitat

Blow flies are attracted to decaying organic matter, carrion, and garbage, making them common in areas with poor sanitation. In the coastal climate of Myrtle Beach, they thrive in environments with high humidity and warm temperatures. They are often found near dumpsters, compost piles, and areas with animal waste along the Grand Strand.

Peak activity: Spring-Fall

Identification Photos

Frequently Asked Questions About Blow fly

Blow flies are primarily attracted to the smell of decaying organic matter, such as garbage, pet waste, and carrion. Unsealed trash cans and improper waste disposal around your home can create an ideal environment for these flies to breed and thrive, especially during the humid summer months in Myrtle Beach.

Yes, blow flies can pose a health risk as they can transmit pathogens that cause food poisoning and other diseases. They can contaminate food and surfaces with bacteria, making it essential to control their populations around your Myrtle Beach home or business. They are also a nuisance pest due to their buzzing and unsightly presence.

The best way to eliminate blow flies is to remove their breeding sources by properly disposing of garbage, cleaning pet waste, and sealing trash cans. You can also use fly traps or contact Myrtle Beach Pest Control for professional pest control services to eliminate adult flies and prevent future infestations.

Yes, blow flies can lay their eggs in open wounds on pets, leading to a condition called myiasis (maggot infestation). This is a serious health issue that requires immediate veterinary attention. Keeping pets clean and treating any wounds promptly is crucial to prevent blow fly infestations in the Myrtle Beach area.

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