Sewage flies are sometimes called drain flies or moth flies. When compared to other types of flies, sewage flies are not strong fliers. They do not bite, but they do breed in filth and have been known to spread germs and cause bronchial asthma. If you live near a sewage plant or waste disposal area, you may be at greater risk of a sewage fly infestation.
| Appearance | Sewage flies have furry, gray bodies, hairy wings, and long antennae that resemble some moths. |
| Length | 1/5” to 1/6” |
| Where You Can Find Them Inside | Sewage flies tend to gather around showers, bathtubs, sinks, and floor drains. They can also be found at windows and lamp shades. |
| Food Sources | Adult sewage flies tend to feed on polluted water and flower nectar. Larvae feed on bacterial scum stuck in drains and pipes. |
| Extra Facts | While sewage flies will often lay eggs in pipe scum, they favor any damp environment with lots of bacteria. This can include wet compost, garbage containers, rain barrels, and even holes in trees. Sewage flies tend to be most active at night. Adult sewage flies can live for a month and they reproduce quickly. |
Complaints
The dust from dead sewage flies has been known to cause bronchial asthma when inhaled. Because they are not strong fliers, sewage flies have also been known to fall in food, contaminating it. An infestation can become quite a nuisance.
Solutions
The best way to get rid of sewage flies is to get rid of the scum in which they lay their eggs. Snake pipes, clean garbage containers, remove wet lint from the washing machine, and empty any standing water in or around your home. It is important to note that most sewage flies are unaffected by bleach, so you may need to take other measures when cleaning your pipes.
If you have a sewage fly infestation, call the experts at Wildlife Enterprises, LLC. We’ll help you eliminate these pets from your home or business so you can keep your property clean and safe.
Dan Lynch is a Certified Commercial Pesticide Applicator with licensing from the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture. His permitted categories include household and health related pests, wood destroying pests, and public health vertebrate and invertebrate pests.