What do houseflies primarily feed on that can be an indicator of neglect or abuse?

Houseflies are particularly attracted to urine and feces as a food source because they are rich in organic matter and nutrients that support the flies' life cycle. When houseflies are present in significant numbers, especially around areas with animal waste, human waste, or unsanitary conditions, it can indicate neglect, poor hygiene, or even abusive situations where proper care is lacking.

The presence of flies near waste can serve as a red flag in various scenarios, such as in cases of child or elder neglect where sanitation is compromised. This is essential in forensic investigations or assessments, as it provides insight into the living conditions of individuals involved, potentially pointing to issues that require immediate attention or intervention.

While decaying flesh could also attract flies, it is more linked to specific forensic contexts like crime scenes or animal carcasses rather than general neglect or abuse. Insects and larvae could be a part of the broader ecosystem involving decay but are not as direct indicators of neglect as the presence of waste. Plant matter, while it can attract flies, does not suggest the same level of neglect or abusive conditions associated with human living environments.