© 2026 Rentokil Initial plc and subject to the conditions in the legal statement.
Fly Control for Commercial Premises
Key takeaways:
- Bluebottle flies are large, with distinct metallic blue or green bodies.
- Their life cycle can move from egg to adult in just two weeks.
- They are drawn to decaying matter, including trash and animal carcasses.
- They do not bite but can spread bacteria on food and surfaces.
- Maggots or fly clusters may mean professional pest control is needed.
What are bluebottle flies?
Bluebottle flies are a type of fly that is often seen buzzing around in warm weather. They are known for their bright blue or greenish-blue color and are a common sight in many homes, especially during summer.
Bluebottle flies are part of the Calliphoridae family and are similar to other flies – but they are larger and have more colorful bodies.
Key characteristics
Bluebottle flies have some distinct features that make them easy to recognize:
- Bright color: Their bodies are typically bright metallic blue or green, making them stand out compared to other flies.
- Size: They are larger than typical houseflies, with bodies around 1/2 inch long.
- Shiny appearance: The shiny metallic color of their body gives them a glossy, almost iridescent look.
- Big eyes: bluebottle flies have large, reddish-brown eyes that cover most of their head.
- Fast fliers: They are fast and unpredictable fliers, often darting from place to place.
Appearance
-
Adult — 1/4" - 1/2" in length; metallic blue color.
-
Larva — Similar to the house fly larva in all respects except size. They are 3/4" when mature.
The life cycle of bluebottle flies
Like many other flies, bluebottle flies go through four stages in their life cycle: egg, larva, pupa, and adult.
The life cycle starts when a female bluebottle fly lays her eggs on decaying matter, like dead animals or rotting food. The eggs hatch within 18 hrs, though sometimes, before the eggs are laid, they might start to change or develop inside the female bluebottle flies fly’s body.
After about a day or two, the bluebottle fly eggs hatch into larvae, also known as maggots. Larvae take seven to 12 days to mature and feed on the decaying matter to grow. Once they are fully grown, they change into pupae, which are like cocoons, before finally becoming adult flies.
Adult bluebottle flies live for about two to three weeks, during which time they mate and lay more eggs. Depending on the weather and conditions, the entire life cycle can take about two weeks.
Seasonal behaviors of bluebottle flies
Bluebottle flies are more active in the warmer months, especially during spring and summer. During these seasons, they are more likely to be seen around outdoor garbage, rotting food, and animal carcasses.
In cooler weather, bluebottle flies tend to be less active and can enter a state of dormancy until the temperature rises again. You will often see an increase in bluebottle flies activity after a warm spell, especially in areas near rot or decay.
Habitat and diet of bluebottle flies
Bluebottle flies are commonly found in areas where trash or dead animals are present. Since these pests are attracted to these kinds of environments, they are often seen in homes with lots of open food waste or near trash.
Where do bluebottle flies live? Common habitats
Some common places where you may find bluebottle flies include:
- Trash bins: These flies are attracted to food waste and decaying materials found in garbage cans.
- Roadkill: Dead animals on the road or other outdoor spaces can attract bluebottle flies, where they lay their eggs.
- Sewage and compost piles: Decaying food and organic waste are prime spots for bluebottle flies to live.
- Homes and kitchens: Bluebottle flies may also enter homes, especially in kitchens with exposed food or food waste.
What do bluebottle flies eat?
Bluebottle flies feed on decaying organic material, such as rotting food, dead animals, and garbage. The larvae eat the decomposing matter, while adult bluebottle flies feed on liquids. They also often feed on sugary substances like nectar, overripe fruit, or even liquids from decaying meat.
These flies are also attracted to the strong smell of decomposition, which is how they find their food sources.
Their feeding habits help break down organic matter in the environment, but they can also spread bacteria and diseases if they come in contact with food.
Habits and behavior of bluebottle flies
Bluebottle flies are known for their fast, unpredictable flying patterns. They tend to fly in erratic circles, especially when they are disturbed or attracted to light.
While they don’t bite or sting, bluebottle flies can carry harmful bacteria and spread disease by landing on food or other surfaces. They are also known to be quite persistent and can return to the same areas repeatedly if the conditions are right.
Bluebottle flies are commonly found around dead animals like rodents or birds. Maggots feed on decaying organic matter, such as dead rodents or birds, helping break the carcasses down.
They prefer to stay close to their food source, but they will fly around if disturbed. They are often seen near windows, light sources, or food waste. These behaviors are part of their natural instincts to find food, lay eggs, and reproduce.
Managing and preventing bluebottle fly infestations
If bluebottle flies are buzzing around your home, it’s important to manage and prevent an infestation before it gets worse. Visit our fly control page for help with managing a bluebottle fly infestation.
Signs of an infestation
There are a few signs that you might have a bluebottle fly infestation:
- Larvae (maggots): Small maggots may be present in decaying food or trash, indicating a breeding ground for bluebottle flies.
- Bad smell: A strong, unpleasant odor may be a sign of rotting food or waste, which attracts bluebottle flies.
- Visible clusters: bluebottle flies are often seen gathering in groups, especially in areas with leftover food or trash.
How to get rid of bluebottle flies
If you're dealing with bluebottle flies, the most effective way to get rid of them is through professional pest control. Contact Presto-X for expert fly solutions today.
Frequently asked questions
Bluebottle flies are called that because of their shiny blue bodies. The name "bottle" comes from how their blue color looks like the glass of a bottle. This bright, metallic color helps people tell them apart from other types of flies.
Related fly species
Bluebottle flies are not the only pests that can be a nuisance. You might also come across these other common flies:
Smaller than the common house fly, they are often found indoors.