What is the most repulsive insect you can think of: a cockroach or the huntsman? They may be creepy but nothing is more disgusting than a small, creamy, putrid worm called the maggot.

Maggots are easily recognised by their white – creamy body shape. 
The slender end that narrows to a point is the head; while the blunt and thick end is the rear. The hook-like mouth parts are the only visible part of the head of these flies. The rear end of the maggot has two kidney bean shaped patterns on the end; these are small openings used for breathing called spiracles. These are designed to eat dead tissue!

During the warmer months, the fly breeds in large numbers. Flies possess special sensory cells on their antennae and feet which allow them to identify suitable food and potential breeding ground. The sensory cells help the fly detect ammonia, carbon dioxide and other compounds that are released from decaying flesh and faeces. Therefore, maggots will only exist if the adult fly has found access to the food source, commonly in your rubbish.

The adult fly lays eggs, usually in rotting and moist environment, like food! The eggs hatch within 24 hours and begin to feed on the food. This is the main feeding stage of the fly. The larvae are 2 mm in length and continue to grow until they reach about 15mm. Maggots generally move in a straight direction away from the food source during post feeding stage.
If you see maggots, it is safe to assume that expired food or dead animal is near by and has been left unattended for some time. The numbers of maggots are a good indicator of the amount of food source.
Be sure to observe the direction that the maggots are coming from. Keep in mind that maggots can travel quite a distance from their food source so don’t be discouraged if you do not find the source. If you do find the food source, ensure you wear gloves to avoid any infections or disease.

The larvae shed their skin three times before wandering off to a cool and dry place and transform into the pupa.
The adult fly emerges from the pupa after about 20 days.

There are simple precautions you can take to prevent maggots occurring in your home and backyard. Basically remember, if you do not have any access to food that flies can invade, you will not have maggots.
Eliminating any breeding sites is the key to maggot control.

1. Ensure you have properly fitting, undamaged fly screens
2. Ensure your kitchen bin has a tight fitting lid and is closed when not in use
3. After meals, ensure you clear away any uneaten food immediately
4. If there is food scraps, contain it in a newspaper before placing it in the kitchen bin
5. Rinse all cans and bottles
6. Do not leave the dog or cat food uncovered, especially canned food
7. Remove any pet faeces
8. If you have children who still use nappies, ensure you remove the solid waste into the toilet and double bag it before placing it in the bin
9. Keep your outside bin in the shade not the full sun, as warm temperature only increases the risk of maggots
10. Ensure the lid of the wheeled bin is closed properly, ensure bin is not too full
11.  Regularly wash your wheeled bin to prevent build up of decaying material
12.  If you do find maggots in the bin, dispose of the rubbish and clean the bin
13.  Maggots and unhatched eggs can be killed with boiling water
14.  Call for advice and assistance of your pest control professional to handle the maggot infestation and restore your home from the repulsive pest.