Common Flies Found In Missouri, Kansas, And Oklahoma

Size: Medium to large; many Midwest horse flies are 1/2–1 inch long or more.

Appearance: Stout, heavy‑bodied flies with one pair of strong wings, short antennae, and large, often brightly patterned eyes. Colors range from gray or brown to nearly black.

Habitat: Common around ponds, streams, pastures, and wooded edges across Missouri and the Midwest. Adults are frequently found near livestock, horses, wildlife, and people outdoors, especially on warm, humid days.

Concerns: Female horse flies bite with cutting mouthparts that tear the skin, causing painful, bleeding bites that can swell and itch. They can stress livestock and may contribute to the transmission of some animal diseases.

Prevention Tips:

• Reduce standing water and wet, muddy areas where possible.
• Use appropriate animal fly protection (screens, fly masks, or targeted treatments around barns, pens, and high‑activity zones
• Avoid peak activity times around water and livestock when possible.

Size: About 1/8–1/4 inch long as an adult.

Appearance: Dull gray body, four dark stripes on the thorax, slightly hairy, with large reddish eyes and clear wings. Often seen resting on walls, windows, trash cans, and around outdoor eating areas.

Habitat: Very common around Midwest homes, farms, and businesses. Breeds in moist, decaying organic matter such as garbage, manure, and compost piles; adults frequently move between these sites and kitchens, patios, and pet areas.

Concerns: House flies do not bite but can spread bacteria and other pathogens by contaminating food and surfaces after landing on waste or animal droppings.

Prevention Tips:

• Keep trash sealed and remove it regularly.
• Clean up food spills, pet waste, and outdoor organic debris.
• Use window and door screens and keep doors closed as much as possible.