Flies
Homeowners often face issues with slow-moving flies in their homes during late winter and early spring. These flies are known as ``clustering flies`` and can belong to any of the three most common types. Cluster flies differ from typical house flies as they are larger, measuring about 8 to 10 mm (.31 to .39 inches). Their dark grey bodies have black and silver checkered stomachs and are covered in a golden mane of hairs, which may not be present on older flies. One of their distinctive features is how their wings overlap when they're at rest, a behaviour not seen in house flies. Cluster flies are often mistaken for house flies but have some key differences: they're larger, darker, and move at a slower pace. They are commonly found in homes surrounded by large lawns or those that back onto open parks. These flies are named ``cluster flies`` because of their habit of gathering in clusters after entering a house in the fall. When disturbed, they may emit a sickly, sweetish odour. Face flies, which are pests of cattle, may hibernate in homes or invade them during the summer. Hibernating face flies have very similar habits to cluster flies. Since the larvae of face flies develop in fresh cattle manure, they are most likely to invade farm homes or homes near pastures or where cattle are kept. Blow flies, also known as blue or green bottle flies, are robust with shiny metallic bodies and can often be found in homes during winter and early spring. These ``buzzing`` insects develop in manure or dead animal carcasses. They are strong fliers and are attracted to lamps or lights. The green bottle fly is also attracted to dog feces and garbage.
If you're dealing with a severe infestation, take heart in the fact that you have easy access to effective solutions. Pesticide products, readily available at hardware or grocery stores and garden centers, can be your allies. They can be sprayed around the outside surfaces of window and door frames to prevent entry. Just remember to check the label for specific directions.
There are also products that can be sprayed on interior window and door frames, baseboards, localized areas of floors or floor coverings, underneath furniture, and in closets, crevices, and other places where insects hide or are seen.
For severe infestations, it's always wise to consider professional help. A pest control operator, with their expertise and specialized tools, can effectively solve the problem, giving you peace of mind.
It's important to note that attempting to control the earthworm population is an ineffective strategy for cluster fly control. Earthworms play a crucial role in producing fertile soil and acting as natural lawn aerators, making them an essential part of your ecosystem. Understanding this can help you focus your efforts on more effective methods.
There are also products that can be sprayed on interior window and door frames, baseboards, localized areas of floors or floor coverings, underneath furniture, and in closets, crevices, and other places where insects hide or are seen.
For severe infestations, it's always wise to consider professional help. A pest control operator, with their expertise and specialized tools, can effectively solve the problem, giving you peace of mind.
It's important to note that attempting to control the earthworm population is an ineffective strategy for cluster fly control. Earthworms play a crucial role in producing fertile soil and acting as natural lawn aerators, making them an essential part of your ecosystem. Understanding this can help you focus your efforts on more effective methods.