What Are Phorid Flies and How to Get Rid of Them?

What Are Those Tiny Flies Near the Kitchen Trash Can?

Those small bugs that scurry in circles and fly in a drifting, unsteady way are most likely phorid flies, also called humpbacked flies. Along with fruit flies and drain flies, they are one of the three most common tiny flies found in bathrooms and kitchens.

What Do Phorid Flies Look Like?

• Very small, 1–3 mm — even smaller than fruit flies.
• Viewed from the side, the thorax is prominently arched like a hump — this is the most distinctive feature.
• Color is dark brown or black.
• They are weak fliers and often scuttle along floors and walls in a zigzag, erratic path.
• At rest, the wings are folded flat over the back, unlike drain flies whose wings spread out.

Phorid Flies vs. Fruit Flies

• Phorid flies: Humpbacked, dark-colored, weak fliers, scuttle along surfaces, attracted to decaying organic matter and drains.
• Fruit flies: Red eyes, light tan, active fliers, hover around fruit, attracted to rotting fruit and fermenting substances.

Where Do Phorid Flies Appear?

• Around kitchen trash cans — leftovers and fruit peels attract them.
• Near sink drains — where greasy residue accumulates.
• Near pet waste — around litter boxes and bird cage bottoms.
• On damp mops and rags — organic matter plus moisture.
• In plant saucers with standing water containing rotted roots or moss.

Why Are They Here?

Phorid flies are drawn to decaying organic matter. If there are leftover food scraps, fruit peels not promptly cleaned up, or grease buildup in the drain, they will come to lay eggs and breed. Find and remove the decaying matter at the source and the phorid flies will disappear on their own.