How to identify and get rid of phorid flies

Have you ever noticed small flies in your home that seem completely crazy? These erratic flies are known as phorid flies or scuttle flies. They might look like dark-eyed fruit flies, but these little pests don't mind staying in your home long after the food is gone.

The presence of phorid flies in your home can mean that something is lurking in your drains or trash bins. That's because phorid flies love eating decaying organic matter, whether that's scum at the bottom of your drains or something dead nearby. Sometimes, a good culprit is a rotten potato or onion lost somewhere in your pantry.

Phorid flies can go by several names, including humpbacked or coffin flies. That last name comes from the fact that these flies are sometimes seen hanging around mausoleums or crypts. It's a disturbing image we don't need to dwell too long on!

However, for the average homeowner, with some savvy detective work and a few simple, non-chemical strategies, you can send these pests packing and reclaim your home as a no-fly zone.

Phorid flies can be identified by their small size and dark eyes. Additionally, its body is curved or humpbacked shaped. Often, its abdomen has brown bands that go across it, which are very much like fruit flies. Phorid flies prefer to erratically run over surfaces, like counters, screens, windows, or plants, instead of flying. You can often see them in groups doing this.

How big are phorid flies?

Phorid flies measure between 1/16 to 1/8 inch in length.

What other flies look like a phorid fly?

Because of their small size and presence in the kitchen, you might confuse phorid flies with fruit flies and fungus gnats. Fruit flies have red eyes, and fungus gnats will not run wildly on surfaces.

They live throughout the United States, thriving both indoors and outdoors. Inside, they are found near garbage, drains, and overripe fruits. They can be found in compost piles or decaying organic matter outside.

Finding a bunch of phorid flies in your kitchen can be very annoying. No matter how much you clean, these flies tend to persist. However, you can do a few things to remove them from your home and keep them from getting established again.

First, you want to find where their larvae are growing. This can be anything from a clogged drain to dirty trash cans or even a dead animal nearby. Remove the source, which will help clear up the problem.

Additional helpful tips include:

• Clean sink and floor drains regularly
• Install or repair screen doors
• Keep dumpsters or trash cans far away from the home
• Inspect pantries frequently for rotten food

An insect barrier spray can also prevent phorid flies from entering the home. Pestie offers a DIY, pro-grade pest control plan that is easy to apply and tailored to your location. Get your customized plan here.