Blog

Facts About Drain Flies (Moth Flies)

Drain flies or moth flies are extremely small and accumulate around showers, bathtubs, sinks and floor drains. They are harmless, but may be persistent annoyance

Features

  • Small flies
  • Size is 1/8 inch
  • Usually black and may be brown
  • Wings have unique patterns of veins
  • Do not bite humans or transmit human disease
  • Feed on organic matter and sewage

Habitat

  • Sewers
  • Kitchen
  • Sinks
  • Shower
  • Bathtub drain
  • Septic tanks
  • Soil that contains sewage

Life Cycle

  • Complete metamorphosis: (egg, larval, pupal and adult)
  • Eggs – Deposit egg masses on moist soil and sides of the drain
  • Larval – Resembles mosquito larvae and found in the top centimeter of waterlogged soil
  • Pupa – Two respiratory trumpets that look like small horns
  • Adult – Dense hair-like scales present along the wing veins and lives to 14 days

Prevention Tips

  • Clean pipes that are frequently flushed out
  • Keep an eye out for standing water

If you have a problem with drain flies, contact Ridpest today to get a quote.