Moisture flies may seem harmless. After all, They are very small, discreet brown in color and have a fluffy coat that gives them an almost friendly appearance. However, appearances are deceiving.

The natural habitat of these flies is sewer system, so they are also known as sewer flies, drain flies or drain flies. It is in drains and sewers where they can acquire pathogens that can represent a risk to people’s health. If you discover these flies in your home, It is essential to act quickly to combat them effectively.

HOW to identify the damp fly

The humidity fly (Psychoda griscens) belongs to the family of Psychodidaewhich includes numerous species.

These small, brown insects measure between 1.5 and 2.5 millimeters long, which can make identification difficult. Its wings have edges covered with fine hairs and have regular white spots. Furthermore, they have two characteristic black spots on the wings.

The larvae, although a little larger, are equally discreet, reaching just 4 millimeters in length.

ARE THESE FLIES DANGEROUS TO HUMANS?

Although damp flies do not bite, they can be a problem for people, mainly for hygiene reasons.

Under certain circumstances, these pests can transmit diseases and germs, especially when they come into contact with food. If such foods are consumed, the pathogens can be transmitted to humans.

Furthermore, if the flies find a suitable environment, can multiply quickly in the home, becoming a hygiene and comfort problem.

WHERE DO MOISTURE FLIES COME FROM?

Due to their small size, these flies can enter homes through tiny openings. They prefer moist, polluted habitats, such as sewers, cesspools, or wastewater treatment systems.

At home, a clogged or dirty drain can attract them quickly. In their natural environment, these flies are found on the forest floor, where they feed on fungi, feces, and animal remains.

Given that They are not good flyersthey usually take advantage of the wind to move. However, if they are attracted to sources of dirty water, feces or organic waste, they are capable of heading directly towards them.

In these places, the females They lay their eggs in the water. The larvae that emerge feed on decomposing organic material, which facilitates its proliferation.

HOW TO ELIMINATE THEM FROM THE HOME

In houses, damp flies are often found near drains in bathrooms and the kitchen. They can enter through windows and small windows that overlook neighborhood drains.

They proliferate especially in low areas where humidity can accumulate. Also They multiply around the plants, attracted by soil moisture and decomposing plant material.

In most cases, It is not necessary to resort to insecticides to combat themnor contact a pest control professional, except in extreme situations.

• A simple and effective method is to vacuum them. It’s not difficult because they are not good flyers. Although it may seem like a basic solution, this trick helps to significantly reduce the fly population in a short time.
• You can place traps: Fill a plastic bottle halfway with vinegar and some pieces of fruit. Pierce the plug so the flies can enter. They will get inside, but they will not be able to get out. You can also mix water and vinegar in a bowl, add sugar and a drop of soap. When they land, they will drown.
• To prevent them from getting close to the plants you can Bury cloves around the plant.

The best remedy is prevention

The best strategy to combat these flies is to avoid attracting them to the home. Prevention also prevents them from laying their eggs and the larvae from developing.

It is important to make a regular cleaning of pipes and siphons to avoid accumulations of waste that can also cause traffic jams.

On the other hand, make sure not to let containers with dirty water at home and avoid leaks or areas with excessive humidity.

Finally, keep the environment dry and clean. Habits such as ventilating to reduce humidity and cleaning regularly help prevent its appearance.

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