Which species is the most common fly found in South Carolina and the United States?

The house fly is recognized as the most common fly found in South Carolina and across the United States due to its widespread distribution and adaptability to various environments. This species thrives in areas with human activity, particularly around food sources, waste, and decaying organic matter. The house fly's life cycle is rapid; it can develop from egg to adult in just a week under favorable conditions, allowing for large populations to establish quickly.

Moreover, house flies are adept at breeding in a variety of substrates, including kitchen scraps, animal feces, and compost. Their close association with humans enhances their chances of survival and reproduction. This adaptability, along with their ability to travel significant distances in search of food, contributes to their prominence in urban and rural settings alike.

In contrast, while other types of flies mentioned, such as blow flies, stable flies, and horse flies, may also be present in South Carolina, they do not match the house fly's overall prevalence and ecological adaptability within residential and commercial environments. These alternative fly species tend to occupy more specific niches, making them less ubiquitous compared to the house fly.