Integrated pest management (IPM) is the most effective strategy for controlling flies in livestock manure but requires an understanding of fly’s life cycle and behavior as well as control methods. Flies are most vulnerable during the larval and adult stages.  Houseflies prefer pure manure with over 30% moisture and rarely migrate more than ½ to 1 mile from preferred breeding sites.  Primarily a nuisance, houseflies have the potential to transmit disease and can leave spots of fecal matter or vomit on eggs in heavily infested laying facilities.  The little housefly is slightly smaller and prefers a dryer manure and shadier site and can migrate 10 to 15 miles from the site.  While both species of houseflies are common to poultry facilities, the stable fly is more common in livestock facilities with bedded present.  These flies can suck blood, which can have a negative impact on beef and milk cattle.

IPM requires a systems approach to fly control that uses a combination of various methods, such as cultural controls, manure management, biological controls and mechanical methods.  Providing good sanitation and reducing moisture in the manure create an environment not conducive to fly breeding.  By maintaining a heterogeneous fauna in the manure, living organisms minimize flies by feeding on or competing with them.  While insecticides can be effective, they need to be applied correctly and during the proper stage of development as well as selectively to minimize genetic resistance.