The types and distribution patterns of domestic flies in Nsukka, East Central State, Nigeria.

A survey of the domestic fly population of Nsukka, a semi-urban university town in the Guinea-savanna belt of West Africa, showed infestation of human and animal shelters with at least 19 species, comprising 5 types of biting flies (Glossina spp., Haematobia sp., Stomoxys sp., Chrysops spp. and Hippobosca sp.); and several types of non-biting flies (including Musca spp., Lucilia sp., Sarcophaga sp. and Oestrus sp.)Preferred breeding sites and areas of aggregation of the insects were studied against the background of the relative fly infestation rates of such habitats as human homes, animal sheds and abattoirs; food houses; sewage and refuse dumps, and open air locations. Also, variations in the diurnal, daily and monthly availability of the flies were noted and related to seasonal changes in temperature and humidity and to ecological aspects of the insects’ life-cycles.