How Long Do Flies Live?

Flies are some of the most common household pests, often found buzzing around kitchens, trash cans, and outdoor areas. Have you also wondered how long do flies live? Let’s find out more about lifespan of flies and how long do flies live along with different stages of fly lifecycle. Let’s begin.

The average lifespan of a fly varies depending on the species and environmental conditions.

House Flies: Typically live for 15-30 days. In favorable conditions, they reproduce rapidly, leading to large infestations in a short period.
Fruit Flies: Have a longer lifespan of about 40-50 days and are known for their quick breeding cycles.

Flies have a surprisingly short lifespan. However, under ideal conditions, some species can live longer. Factors like temperature, availability of food, and living spaces influence their life expectancy. For example, flies that have access to plenty of food and a warm environment tend to live longer than those in harsher conditions.

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The Lifecycle of Flies

Flies undergo a complete metamorphosis, moving through four distinct stages in their lifecycle:

Fly Life Cycle Stages

Eggs: Female flies lay eggs in decaying organic material, like garbage or animal waste. A single fly can lay 75-150 eggs at a time, and these hatch within 8-24 hours.
Larva (Maggot): Once the eggs hatch, larvae feed on the surrounding organic matter. This stage lasts about 3-7 days, depending on temperature and food availability.
Pupa: Larvae develop into pupae, encasing themselves in a protective shell. This transformation stage lasts about 3-5 days.
Adult Fly: Fully developed flies emerge and start reproducing within 24-48 hours of reaching adulthood. The cycle then repeats, making flies one of the fastest-reproducing pests.

Visit our Species, Control, and DIY Guide sections for additional resources on flies and ways to tackle a fly infestation.

Where Do Flies Lay Eggs?

Flies are prolific breeders, and their ability to reproduce quickly is one reason they are so common. Female flies lay their eggs in decaying organic material, such as rotting food, animal carcasses, and manure. These locations provide a nutrient-rich environment for the larvae, which feed on the organic material as they develop. The eggs hatch in 24 hours, and the larvae, also known as maggots, begin feeding immediately. Understanding where flies lay eggs can help you control their population by eliminating these breeding grounds.

Tips to Prevent Fly Infestation

Maintain Cleanliness: Keep your home clean and free of food spills, crumbs, and pet waste.
Clean Garbage Bins: Regularly clean garbage bins and ensure they are tightly sealed.
Dispose of Organic Waste: Dispose of decaying organic matter like food scraps and yard waste promptly.
Fix Leaks and Clean Drains: Fix leaks and clean drains to prevent flies from laying eggs in moist areas.
Block Entry Points: Use window screens, door sweeps, and air curtains to block flies from entering.

Prevention techniques might not be enough if you’re already dealing with a flies’ infestation in your home. Our pest control professionals provide a customized solution to protect your home effectively. Get free estimate today!