Fly Facts & Photos

Flies can beat their wings up to 1,000 times per minute! That's why you see them zipping around so fast – they are like tiny helicopters of the insect world!

Some flies can taste with their feet! They use their sensitive feet to find out if a surface is tasty, so they know just where to land.

Flies can develop a superpower called 'flight reflex' that allows them to escape quickly! They can go from still to flying away in about one-tenth of a second, which helps them dodge swipes from humans.

A fly has more than 1,000 tiny eyes called ommatidia, allowing them to see nearly all around them at the same time! That means a fly is like a superhero with nearly 360-degree vision!

Some species of flies can even survive being frozen for months! This makes them real survivors, ready to buzz back to life when the weather gets warm again.

Flies play a crucial role in the ecosystem by helping decompose dead animals and plants. They are nature's little clean-up crew, breaking down waste so new life can grow!

In some cultures, people use flies to make special sticky traps for pest control. These traps help catch unwanted insects while allowing flies to remind us of their buzzing adventures!

Flies can communicate with each other through special smells. They release scents to attract mates or find food, making them nature's original social networkers!

Houseflies have a unique way of walking on walls and ceilings thanks to tiny hairs on their feet that create a sticky effect. It's like they have built-in climbing gear!

Some flies actually use decaying food to find each other! When they gather around old bananas or scraps, they are simply having a delicious party, inviting their friends to join the feast!

Overview

Flies are small, buzzing insects that fit right into the insect family. The common housefly, known scientifically as Musca domestica, measures about 6 to 7 millimeters long, making them easy to spot as they flit around.
These little critters are found all over the world, from bustling cities to quiet countrysides. Flies love to snack on decaying organic matter and sugary treats, making them the ultimate recyclers of the insect world.
With a lifespan of about 15 to 30 days, flies have a fast-paced life. They may be short-lived, but they sure know how to make the most of their time with their various buzzing and bipping adventures!

Where are Fly found in the wild?

These energetic little insects can be found everywhere across the globe, from busy urban centers to tranquil rural areas. Flies thrive in habitats that offer plenty of decaying organic matter and sugary foods, making garbage bins and compost heaps their favorite hangouts!

What does a Fly eat?

Flies have a fascinating diet that showcases their role as nature's recyclers. They feast on decaying organic matter and sugary substances, using their spongy mouthparts to suck up delicious liquids as they hop from one treat to another!

How big can a Fly grow?

Flies are tiny wonders of the insect world! The average housefly measures about 6 to 7 millimeters long, which is just enough to make them buzz around your picnic without being too invasive!
They may be small, but their energy levels are sky-high as they dart everywhere, from city streets to country gardens, gobbling up all things sweet and decayed!

How long does a Fly typically live?

Flies live a speedy life, usually only lasting between 15 to 30 days. They develop quickly through distinct stages: starting as eggs that hatch into larvae in about 24 hours, then transform into pupae in just 5 to 7 days, before emerging as adult flies ready to buzz around!

What is the conservation status of the Fly?

These incredible insects, known for their buzzing antics, currently have not been evaluated for conservation status by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). While most flies thrive in a variety of habitats, it's important to pay attention to their ecosystems as pollution and habitat destruction can impact these little recyclers, even though they continue to buzz around cheerfully anywhere food is found!

What are the main threats to the Fly?

These tiny insects face natural threats from birds, lizards, and spiders that love to catch them for a tasty snack. Weather changes like heavy rain or dry spells can also affect their habitats and food sources, making life a little tough for these buzzers.While flies are resilient, they encounter manmade threats like pollution from trash and chemicals that can dirty their homes. Urban environments often hold less food for flies, but they cleverly adapt and continue to thrive near our leftover snacks and open garbage cans!

Fly

The Basics

Scientific Name

Musca domestica

Conservation Status

Not evaluated

Location

Worldwide

Average size

6 to 7 mm long

diet

Decaying organic matter, sugary substances

lifespan

15 to 30 days