Flies are small, winged insects that are closely related to mosquitoes. There are over 150,000 different species of flies, and they can be found on every continent except Antarctica. Flies are attracted to warm, moist environments and are often seen near garbage cans, decaying food, and other sources of decay. Many flies spread diseases by carrying pathogens on their bodies or in their gut. Some of the most common diseasesSpread by flies include typhoid fever, cholera, and dysentery.
Different types of flies include houseflies, fruit flies, hoverflies, and blowflies. Houseflies are the most common type of fly found in homes. They measure about 6 mm in length and have a lifespan of about 30 days. Fruit flies are smaller than houseflies and are often found near fruits or other sweet substances. Hoverflies are larger than houseflies and have a brightly colored abdomen. Blowflies are typically dark in color and have a metallic sheen to their body.