Plank Termite & Pest Control
Pest ID: Flies
Bothered by Buzzing?
Fly Identification in Rolla and Central Missouri
Use this guide to compare flies by appearance and where activity occurs. Identifying the fly helps direct the search for its source. Plank Termite & Pest Control offers fly control services for homes and businesses in Rolla and Central Missouri. We can inspect the activity and explain recommended treatment, maintenance and follow-up.
Fly Identification
Understanding which type of fly you're dealing with helps determine the best treatment strategy. Here are six common types of flies found in Missouri:
House Fly
One of the most common indoor pests. House flies are dull gray with four black stripes on their thorax and grow about ¼ inch long.
- Found around trash cans, food prep areas, and windows
- Attracted to food waste, pet droppings, and decaying matter
- Look for adult flies during the day and maggots near waste bins
Green Blow Fly
These metallic green flies are larger than house flies and are associated with decay.
- Found near dead animals, garbage bins, and open compost
- Indicators include a strong odor and clusters of flies near carcasses or organic waste
- May enter buildings looking for breeding spots
Cluster Fly
Cluster flies are sluggish, dark gray flies that gather in large numbers inside walls or attics during cooler months.
- Found behind curtains, around windows, or in ceiling lights
- Common in fall or early spring when flies are emerging from hibernation
- Look for dozens of slow-moving flies in upper levels of buildings
Fruit Fly
Tiny (⅛ inch), tan-bodied flies with red eyes, often found around fruit bowls and garbage disposals.
- Attracted to ripe or fermenting fruit, sugary liquids, and dirty drains
- Look for adult flies near sinks and fruit baskets, and larvae near moist organic material
Fungus Gnat
Small, dark-colored flies resembling mosquitoes. Often confused with fruit flies but found in overwatered houseplants.
- Found in indoor potted plants, greenhouses, and moist soil
- Evidence includes slow-flying adults and larvae in plant soil
- Inspect soil moisture and drain pans for larval activity
Drain (Sewage) Fly
Fuzzy, moth-like flies that breed in slimy organic material in drains.
- Common in commercial restrooms, homes, and kitchens with slow drains
- Look for adults resting near sinks or tubs
- Evidence includes flies emerging from drains and a buildup of sludge in pipes
Take Control of Your Fly Problem
Don’t wait for flies to multiply. Call or text Plank Termite & Pest Control at (573) 368-3333 to schedule your fly inspection and protect your property with proven solutions.
Why Flies Invade
Common Causes of a Fly Infestation
Different flies are associated with different conditions. Inspect the areas where you see activity and consider these possible sources or entry points:
- Dirty garbage cans, drains, or grease traps
- Standing water from leaks or overwatering
- Rotten or fermenting fruit and produce
- Pet waste in the yard or litter boxes indoors
- Poorly sealed doors and windows
- Open compost or uncovered trash
Finding the source is a key part of planning service. Let us know where flies appear most often and whether the activity has changed recently.
Keep Flies from Returning
How to Prevent Fly Infestations in Central Missouri
Prevention starts with sanitation and sealing off common fly entry points. Here’s how you can stop them before they spread:
- Clean drains regularly with an appropriate enzyme-based product
- Dispose of overripe produce and store fruit in the fridge
- Take out the trash daily and keep cans tightly sealed
- Fix leaks and reduce excess moisture indoors and outdoors
- Keep doors and windows sealed with screens in good condition
- Inspect potted plants for overwatering or decaying organic material
Ask about our Perimeter Guard service packages. Your estimate will explain the selected services and any recommended follow-up.
FAQs About Flies
How do I identify a fly?
Compare its size, color, wings and where it is active. A clear photograph can help us decide whether an inspection is needed.
Does seeing flies mean the property is dirty?
No. Conditions vary by species, and some flies enter buildings from outdoors. Identifying the fly helps focus the inspection.
What information helps an inspector?
Note the rooms or outdoor areas involved, when activity started and where flies appear most often.
What does service include?
We will explain the recommended treatment, maintenance steps and follow-up for the identified problem.
We Stand Behind Our Work
We will explain the proposed work and answer your questions before service begins. Call (573) 368-3333 or use the contact options below to discuss fly activity at your property.
Judyann Krenning
Very professional and polite. Definitely knew his business. Our problem was taken care of easily.
Laura Chilton
I called Plank Termite and Pest Control and an actual person answered the phone! We discussed the pest situation, came up with a solution, set up an appointment for Jacob, the technician, to come to our house. Jacob arrived exactly on time, took care of the situation, made recommendations for the future, provided a receipt and finished the job within about 30 minutes. I highly recommend Plank Termite and Pest Control for their superior professionalism and service.
Beth Reddington
He did a great job and he answered all of my questions thank you.
Larry Lyle
My 2nd time doing business with this locally owned and highly recommended company. The trchs were extremely thorough in the indoor and outdoor assessment and did a great job with answering all questions. Prices are more than reasonable especially when compared to other “big name pest control” businesses. We are subscribed to future services now as well. A+
Brian Molloy
I’ve been using Plank Pest Control for a couple of years now. My experience with them has been not only positive and professional but pleasant as well. I’ve known the Plank family since childhood and seeing the second generation of them do what they do best makes me very grateful for my acquaintance with the company. Not only do they get rid of all the creepy crawlers they make sure to answer any and all questions I might have regarding the job they’ve done.