Let us start out with the Scuttle Fly it really is, just a nickname for the Phorid Fly. Scuttle Flies are a family of small, hump-backed flies resembling fruit flies. Phorid Flies, similar to fruit flies and they are found throughout the world, about 1/8 inches in length and are tan in color. Scuttle flies however do not have red eyes but do have a noticeable ‘hump’ on their backs. They feed mainly on decaying organic material and lay eggs in such suitable materials.

Phorid Flies can often be identified by their escape habit of running rapidly across a surface rather than flying, giving them that nickname the scuttle fly. They are a diverse and successful group of insects.

Phorid Flies area also called “coffin flies”, because they are known to be found in mortuaries and mausoleums. Because the female will lay eggs in open wounds, they are a serious threat in hospitals. The female will lay up to 40 eggs in a 12 hour period. And will hatch in about 24 hours. The larvae will feed up to 18 days then crawl to a drier place to pupate. The entire cycle can be done in as little as 14 days but typically takes a month.

Controlling these pests can be just as difficult as the fruit fly requiring patience and diligence just to be rid of them. Just like the fruit fly it is necessity to investigate for the source.

Controlling the scuttle fly can be difficult just like the fruit fly; it requires diligence and tenacity to be rid of them. As with the fruit fly you will need to look for the source. Scuttle fly larvae can only live in moist organic matter. A favorite spot to check for them is the drains. If adult flies are found in the drains that’s a good sign they are there. If so the drain must be thoroughly cleaned. A good scrubby brush to remove the residue in the drain and some bleach poured into the drain should help but may not be 100% affective unless you remove all the organic matter. Another helpful thing to do is to remove the pea trap and clean it.

The Phorid Fly loves the same places as the fruit fly; the best measure to be rid of them is a thorough cleaning of affected areas. Places that they love to dine are drains, garbage cans, spills under the refrigerator and decaying vegetables. You know that onion that was in the back of the pantry you forgot is probably a culprit. The fruit fly trap is also a good way to eliminate the adults. Just put a small amount of red wine or apple cider vinegar into a shallow dish, cover it with plastic wrap, and then poke a hole into it.

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