Bluebottle Flies Swarming Camellias: The Hidden Breeding Source

Two camellia bushes host hundreds of bluebottle flies (shiny blue, loud buzzers). Disturbing the shrubs sends clouds of flies onto the house siding.

Why They’re There

Bluebottle flies (Calliphora spp.) breed exclusively in decomposing organic matter. Their presence on the camellias means a breeding site is nearby—not on the plants themselves. Common sources:

• Broken sewer line or septic leak
• Garbage cans with organic residue
• Dead rodent/bird in wall, attic, or crawlspace
• Forgotten mousetrap with carcass
• Pet waste accumulation

Elimination Strategy

1. Inspect sewer cleanouts and vent pipes for cracks.
2. Check all trash/recycling containers—clean thoroughly.
3. Search attic, walls, and crawlspace for carcasses.
4. Use fly strips or aerosol for immediate knockdown, but source removal is the only cure.

Once the breeding site is eliminated, flies disappear within days. The camellias are innocent bystanders.