CHAPTER XXIV 
Insect Pests oF THE HoUSEHOLD AND STORED Propucts 
House Flies 
THE commonest fly found in houses is the species properly known as 
the House Fly (fusca domestica Linn.). It is of medium size, grayish, 
and has mouth parts dilated at the end in a sort of lobe, fitted for tak- 
ing up liquid food. Its 
early stages are passed in 
moist, decaying matter, 
especially horse manure or 
other excrement. These 
flies never bite; but they 
are pernicious visitors be- 
cause of their filthy habits, 
and their known agency 
in the dissemination of 
disease. 
A second species, the 
Stable Fly (Stomorys cal- 
citrans Linn.), is the pest 
that annoys us by “ biting,” especially before storms. It has piercing 
Fie. 553.— The House Fly. Original. 
mouth parts. 
Other species often are-observed, but the two named above are in 
the great majority, and of these two the house fly is by far the more 
numerous. 
Since flies are known to carry disease, it is of prime importance to 
be rid of them in our homes. Proper screening is the first requisite, 
and nothing can be accomplished without this fundamental protection. 
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