How to deal with bathroom sink flies
Introduction
Bathroom sink flies are insects that measure about 1.5 mm to 5 mm long they have a tan or light gray body with lighter colored wings. The wings and body are sheltered with long hairs, hence giving a fuzzy look to the fly. While resting, this fly folds its wings over its body in a roof-like manner.
How to identify them
You can find the adult flies on kitchen, basement or bathroom walls. The flies are highly active during the night, bathroom (sink) flies do not bite and, shockingly, they do not spread diseases. These flies can pose as an annoyance to homeowners if their population increases. The flies are noticeable in wet areas that are glazed with a nutrient-laden organic matter. Sink flies can be seen in storm drains and houses. They are also present near compost piles and rotting logs.
Bathroom flies life cycle
The bathroom flies life cycle begins when the fly lays its eggs in most cases in decomposing organic material present in pipes and drains. The eggs are cream or brown in color and take thirty-two to forty-eight hours to hatch. The larvae feed on the viscid matter, and in nine to fourteen days they are at maturity age and have an antenna, six legs and a pair of wings. The larvae are known to endure low oxygen states and high temperatures. The flies have a one to three weeks life cycle.However, in small numbers, these flies can prove to be beneficial as their larvae can often break down the substances that block the drains.
Signs of infestation
The most definite sign of infestation is the presence of adult flies. They are frequently seen resting on bathroom walls or near their breeding ground. Larvae can also be seen floundering in the organic breeding material where they lay and feed.
How to control
Luckily, these flies do not bite. There is a lot of speculation that since these flies stay in moist drains, they tend to carry all kinds of diseases and bacteria. However, there is little proof to support this speculation. What there is evidence for is if you have a massive infestation, you are at a significant risk of getting bronchial asthma as a result of breathing in dead flies body parts and dust. The best way to control these flies is to destroy the breeding source. Often, it is the organic matter that has piled up in the drain. If you notice adult flies in your home, there is a high possibility that there is a clogged or slow drain in your house. Therefore, you need to identify the pipe and substantially remove the clogged material. After the clogged material is cleared, the issue is solved since the larvae are removed along with the matter. However, the adult flies are still alive. But worry not, for the adults will live for around twenty days, but since they do not have a spot for laying their eggs the will eventually die, and thus the issue will be solved.…