Drain Files
Drain flies are creatures that you might not have heard of. But they can be a nightmare when they invade your home. They’re called drain flies because these pests are often found in drains where they breed and grow.
Drain fly swarms are so bad, homeowners often need to call in pest control companies for help with the infestation – but there’s no guarantee that the problem will be solved for good. The best way to get rid of drain flies is by stopping them from breeding in your pipes and drains before the population explodes out of control!
Drain Flies
The Facts About the Drain Flies
Drain flies are small flying insects, typically appearing near drains and sewers (hence the name), with adults reaching only a few millimeters in length. Adult drain flies have shiny black bodies covered by translucent wings, which can be up to twice as long as their body.
The larvae of these strange creatures feed on sludge produced by decomposing organic matter, bacteria, and fungi in drains. They also feed on microscopic strands of algae that grow on moist surfaces. In return for food, the larvae get rid of decaying material clogging up pipes and sewers.
Drain Flies Behavior
The drain fly life cycle begins with eggs laid near drains. Larvae hatch from the eggs and feed on the organic matter in the drain. After a few weeks, they pupate and then emerge as adults – usually at night – when they swarm around lamps or bright lights to mate if it’s warm outside. The adult flies can live for several weeks, and lay their eggs in the drains where they lived as larvae.
Drain Flies Appearance
These pests vary slightly in appearance from one another, but most have shiny black bodies and translucent wings. Drain flies are about 3 mm long when fully grown. They have large eyes and a pair of brown or dark red antennae tipped with hooks. Drain fly legs are grey to black in color, and their abdomens taper to a point at the end.
Drain Fly Predator and Natural Control Options
As drain flies are not known to transmit serious diseases, they are very difficult to control. While it’s near impossible to get rid of these pests completely, you can employ some strategies for keeping their populations in check.
Maintaining your household hygiene by clearing up spills and messes quickly, cleaning food spills such as grease and leftovers out of the sink regularly, changing plumbing fixtures that are broken or leaking, and having your drains inspected for cracks can help to keep drain fly populations from taking hold.
Contact Us
If you find any Drain Fly in your Charlotte County home, contact Bug Off Pest Charlotte immediately. We can help rid you of these garden pests and get your lawn or yard back to normal! As always, we are happy to answer any questions you may have about Drain Fly or any other pest. Call us today 941-676-2005
