What are Phoridae Flies?

Phoridae flies, often called scuttle flies or humpbacked flies, are small insects that measure about 1 to 3 millimeters in length. They are recognized by their arched thorax, giving them a humpbacked appearance, and by their unusual running behavior. Instead of taking flight immediately, phorid flies often scuttle quickly across surfaces, which is how they got their nickname. These flies are commonly found indoors in moist, decaying organic material and are especially problematic in hospitals, food-handling areas, and homes with plumbing leaks.

Signs of Phoridae Fly Infestation

If you suspect phorid flies in your property, look for these common signs:

• Small flies running rapidly across counters, sinks, or floors before flying
• Clusters of flies around drains, trash bins, or decaying organic matter
• Persistent fly activity in damp or leaking areas such as under sinks or near broken pipes
• Flies emerging from cracks in flooring or wall voids, especially where moisture issues exist

Why They are a Problem

Phoridae flies are more than a nuisance. They can contaminate food and surfaces by spreading bacteria picked up from decaying matter and sewage. In healthcare settings, they are a serious concern because they have been linked to the transmission of harmful pathogens. Large infestations are difficult to eliminate because they often breed deep inside plumbing systems, floor drains, and wall voids, where organic buildup provides a perfect breeding ground.

Where Do They Come From?

Phorid flies are usually attracted to damp, unsanitary environments. Common sources include:

• Clogged or dirty drains
• Leaking plumbing pipes or broken sewer lines
• Garbage bins and compost piles
• Decaying food, organic matter, or carcasses hidden in wall voids
• Damp soil from overwatered houseplants

Once indoors, they can quickly multiply, especially if moisture and food sources remain available.

How to Get Rid of Phoridae Flies at Home

If you are wondering how to get rid of phorid flies, here are some safe and practical steps you can take:

• Clean and disinfect drains regularly to remove organic buildup
• Repair leaky pipes, faucets, or sewer lines to eliminate breeding areas
• Store food in sealed containers and dispose of garbage promptly
• Avoid overwatering houseplants to reduce soil moisture that attracts flies
• Use sticky traps near areas of activity as a temporary measure

These steps can reduce fly numbers, but infestations often persist if the breeding source is hidden or inaccessible. Professional inspection and treatment are usually needed to eliminate them completely.

Phoridae Flies vs Fruit Flies

Phoridae flies are often mistaken for fruit flies, but there are key differences:

• Phoridae flies have a humpbacked body shape, while fruit flies are more rounded
• Fruit flies are usually seen hovering around fruit and sugary liquids, while phorid flies prefer drains, decaying organic matter, and sewage
• Phoridae flies tend to run across surfaces before flying, unlike fruit flies which usually fly immediately

Recognizing the difference is important because each fly species requires a different control approach.

How We Can Help

At Go Away Pest & Wildlife Control, we specialize in identifying and eliminating fly infestations at the source. Our team conducts thorough inspections to locate breeding sites, even in hard-to-reach areas like wall voids and sewer lines. We use targeted treatments that are safe for your home or business while ensuring long-term results. With our expertise, you can restore a clean, pest-free environment and prevent phorid flies from coming back.