Nesting Habits

These flies are usually the first insects to arrive and infest an animal after it dies. The larvae of green bottle flies are often used by forensic entomologists to help determine the time of death in murder cases.

Generally, these flies are most active on warm, sunny days and rest on cool and/or cloudy days. Indoors they are attracted to the bright light from windows, as well as certain light bulbs.

Dead rodents, birds and other small animals can be the source of flies within structures, while dog excrement, garbage and compost piles are common outdoor sources.

Damage

Because they are attracted to animal excrement and freshly dead materials, these flies may transfer pathogenic bacteria from one material to another. For example, Salmonella is easily carried on the feet of green bottle flies from dog droppings outdoors to meat or other foods.