We don't often find flies such a popular topic of conversation, but given recent events, we'd like to seize the moment to share some science-based information about their status as both pests and beneficial insects.

Flies can be nuisance insects both indoors and outdoors. There are many species of flies in California with some being more problematic than others. In UC IPM's publication Pest Notes: Flies, the authors provide information about identification, habitat, damage, and management of several common flies including house flies and face flies.

You may be surprised to learn that some flies are actually beneficial insects. Many flies in the family Tachinidae attack and parasitize other insect pests. These parasitic flies are considered “natural enemies” that provide biological control and help reduce pest populations of squash bugs, cabbage loopers, and other pests. Read more about these beneficial flies on our website.

Finally, flyswatters are a tried and true tool of integrated pest management. They're a great nonchemical alternative and very effective for physical/mechanical control. Something to remember the next time you have a fly bothering you!