Fly of the genus Musca, found in and around dwellings, especially M. domestica, a common worldwide species. Houseflies are gray and have mouthparts adapted for drinking liquids and sucking moisture from food and manure.
The housefly, Musca domestica, is one of the most common of all insects. It is a worldwide pest in homes, barns, poultry houses, food-processing plants, recreation areas, etc.
House fly eggs are laid in almost any type of warm organic material. Animal or poultry manure is an excellent breeding medium. Decaying vegetation such as grass clippings and garbage can also provide for optimum breeding conditions.
Houseflies are strong fliers and can become widely distributed by flying, wind currents, vehicles and animals. Generally, though, flies are abundant in the immediate vicinity of their breeding site.
Common fly that frequents human habitations and spreads many diseases; SYN. Musca domestica.