| Scientific name | Clogmia albipunctata |
|---|---|
| Group | Flies & Mosquitoes |
| Size | 2–5 mm (up to about 0.20 in) |
| Colors | Gray and Black |
| Legs | 6 legs |
| Wings | Yes |
| Where found | Bathroom, Kitchen and Basement or garage |
| Most active | Spring, Summer, Fall and Winter |
| Bites | No |
| Stings | No |
| Risk level | Nuisance |
How to identify it
The drain fly is a small member of the flies & mosquitoes group. Only one pair of flying wings; the hind pair is reduced to tiny knobs. Check for these three features:
- Fuzzy, gray, leaf-shaped wings held roof-like over the body
- Short, weak, hopping flight
- Found near drains, especially in bathrooms
About this bug
A small, fuzzy, moth-like fly that rests on bathroom walls near sinks, tubs and floor drains. Its larvae live in the slimy film inside drains.
You'll usually find drain flies in the bathroom, in the kitchen and in basements and garages. They are most active in spring, summer, fall and winter.
Is it dangerous?
Drain flies don't bite and aren't known to spread disease in homes.
Our rating: Nuisance, meaning it is a nuisance pest but not a health threat to most people.
When you'll see drain flies
Drain Flies are most active in spring, summer, fall and winter. In spring, overwintering adults become active and many species lay their first eggs. Summer heat speeds up development, so populations can grow quickly. In fall, many bugs look for shelter, and some move toward or into buildings. In winter, activity continues mainly indoors in heated spaces.
Typical places to check: bathroom, kitchen and basement or garage.
About flies & mosquitoes
The drain fly is one of the flies & mosquitoes. Flies have only one pair of working wings; the second pair is reduced to small balancing knobs called halteres. They go through complete metamorphosis, and the larvae, called maggots, need moist organic material such as garbage, soil, drain film or standing water.
Fly problems are almost always breeding-site problems. Finding and removing the moist material where larvae develop works far better than swatting adults.
What to do about it
- Scrub drains with a stiff brush to remove the organic film
- Pour boiling water or an enzyme drain cleaner down slow drains
- Fix leaks and dry out damp areas
Read the full guide: how to get rid of drain flies.
Bugs that look similar
Color: Drain Flies are gray and black; fruit flies are tan, brown and red.
Where found: look for drain flies in the bathroom, in the kitchen and in basements and garages; fungus gnats turn up indoors.
Frequently asked questions
What does a drain fly look like?
Fuzzy, gray, leaf-shaped wings held roof-like over the body. Adults measure 2–5 mm (up to about 0.20 in).
Does the drain fly bite or sting?
It does not bite. It does not sting. Drain flies don't bite and aren't known to spread disease in homes.
Where do drain flies live?
Drain Flies live in the bathroom, in the kitchen and in basements and garages.
When are drain flies most active?
Mostly in spring, summer, fall and winter.