Eggs incubate only 1.5 to 2 days before larvae hatch. These maggots feed and develop for 7 to 10 days. Within 9 to 14 days, a new generation of flies emerges and the life cycle is repeated. Though detailed outdoor studies have not been carried out, results of lab experiments suggest that as many as seven successive generations occur each year. Adults of this genus may live as long as two months.
Populations flourish during cool seasons, particularly spring, early summer, and late fall.
Peak numbers usually occur by July after which dry, hot weather and parasitism causes populations to subside until fall. Lesser house fly maggots are often common in poultry and livestock manure. Frequent garbage disposal and tight lids on garbage cans help eliminate favorable conditions for fly breeding. In poultry houses, the use of mists, fogs or baits may be necessary for fly control. Insecticides should not be applied to the manure for maggot control.