Insect Identification Laboratory
Department of Entomology at Virginia Tech

Identification of Flies

Select the insect that most closely resembles the fly you have found. This set only covers the major pests and you may have something else. In that case you should contact your county extension agent. He/She is well trained in local insect problems.

Flies, eight choices

MOSQUITOES are small flies with long mouthparts. Most are less then 1/4 inch or 6 mm. Mosquitoes are similar to midges which lack the long mouthparts and have feathery antenna. MOTH FLIES are so similar to moths they are often identified incorrectly. Moth flies are small gray flies that hold their wings over their body in a roof like manner. Fact sheet is on drain flies which is the other name for this pest.
FUNGUS GNATS are small (1/8 inch or 3 mm) flies associated with potted plants in houses. It is the small fly that flies up when the plant is watered FRUIT FLIES are small tan flies with red eyes. Associated with compost and rotting fruit and vegetables.
HOUSEFLIES are medium sized (1/4 - 3/8 inch or 6 - 9 mm) flies, black with gray markings. Very common CLUSTER FLIES are similar in size to house flies but are black with red eyes. This is one of the most common flies in attics and windows in the winter.
BLOW FLIES are similar in size to house flies and are often metallic green, blue, or bronze in color. Fact sheet is on the immature maggot stage.

Does not fit, GO BACK TO LIST LIST OF ADULT INSECTS


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Maintained by Eric R. Day, Manager, Insect Identification Laboratory, Department of Entomology, Virginia Tech.

If you have questions or comments about this page, or notice errors, please send us an e-mail message at idlab@vt.edu. Be sure to include your location (State) and mailing address. Or, you can contact my office at: Insect Identification Lab, Department of Entomology, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA 24061-0319. Please let us know how you heard about this World Wide Web page.