Quick answer
Houseflys (Musca domestica) are insects found across Africa, Asia, Europe, North America, South America, Oceania. The familiar fly found wherever people live. Adults typically weigh roughly 0.00002 kg (0 lb), reach speeds of Up to ~8 km/h (5 mph) in flight, and live Adults about 2–4 weeks. They feed on omnivore (liquid and decaying matter) and are listed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List. Everywhere humans live, on every continent except Antarctica.
Key takeaway
Houseflys (Musca domestica) are insects found across Africa, Asia, Europe, North America, South America, Oceania. The familiar fly found wherever people live. Adults typically weigh roughly 0.00002 kg (0 lb), reach speeds of Up to ~8 km/h (5 mph) in flight, and live Adults about 2–4 weeks. They feed on omnivore (liquid and decaying matter) and are listed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List. Everywhere humans live, on every continent except Antarctica.
Housefly overview
Housefly (Musca domestica) is a insect listed here as Least Concern. Typical weight about 0.00002 kg; lifespan around Adults about 2–4 weeks.
Housefly ecology
Diet: Omnivore (liquid and decaying matter). Habitat: Almost everywhere humans live. Movement and social systems reflect those pressures across the native range.
Houseflys and people
Learn before you travel or keep related pets. Wild houseflys are not toys; captive care needs species-specific husbandry.
Status and further reading
Conservation label in our guides: Least Concern. See the full Housefly profile for taxonomy, FAQs, and related topic guides on this site.
Range and habitat
Houseflies inhabit Everywhere humans live, on every continent except Antarctica. Their preferred habitat includes almost everywhere humans live, where they find food, shelter, and breeding sites. Population density varies with prey availability, water access, and human disturbance. Protected areas and intact corridors remain essential for long-term persistence across Africa, Asia, Europe, North America, South America
Physical characteristics and behaviour
Adult houseflies typically measure about 0.007 m in length and weigh roughly 0.00002 kg (0 lb). They can sprint at Up to ~8 km/h (5 mph) in flight when hunting or escaping predators. Houseflys are known for the familiar fly found wherever people live — social structure, daily activity, and seasonal movements all reflect pressures in their native environment.
Sources
Housefly FAQs
What are key facts about houseflys?
Houseflys (Musca domestica) are insects found across Africa, Asia, Europe, North America, South America, Oceania. The familiar fly found wherever people live. Adults typically weigh roughly 0.00002 kg (0 lb), reach speeds of Up to ~8 km/h (5 mph) in flight, and live Adults about 2–4 weeks. They feed on omnivore (liquid and decaying matter) and are listed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List. Everywhere humans live, on every continent except Antarctica.
What is the scientific name of the housefly?
Musca domestica — used in research and conservation listings for houseflys.
What do houseflys eat?
Houseflys eat liquid and decaying matter, with seasonal and regional variation in Almost everywhere humans live.
Where do houseflys live?
They are associated with Almost everywhere humans live. Local presence depends on food, cover, and human land use.
What is the conservation status of houseflys?
Listed in our guides as Least Concern. Check the IUCN Red List and national assessments for the latest formal category.