Pest Control News

Monday, 11 February 2019

Cluster Flies

Cluster Flies

Like many insects, cluster flies move inside for the winter months. They primarily get in through gaps in roofs and attics but also through open doors and windows. They enjoy warm spaces so your cosy home during the winter months is a great nesting place for them. 

Interestingly, if they find a space that serves them well, they can return to the same space year after year which unfortunately means possible infestations year after year. After they have enjoyed the warmth of your home they tend to leave around early spring time.

They travel in huge swarms so you can’t miss them. They actually hibernate during the winter months however their excrement will mean that you will definitely know if you have an infestation due to the smell and staining it can cause to whatever it comes into contact with. They do not pose a risk to human health directly however they can spread diseases and contaminate our food. 

There are some places that cluster flies have a preference for in the home, most likely to be found in loft spaces due to that fact that in a natural environment cluster flies tend to hibernate in trees. 

Places to check around your home;
·     around doors or windows
·     around vents
·     pipe openings
·     wire openings
·     cabling openings
·     gaps in the attic space
·     damaged tiles on the roof

Although they can be swatted and killed we suggest you explore the locations above in which these flies may be getting access to your home. 

Useful tips:
·     Tidy up spillages and crumbs in the house immediately 
·     Store rubbish in sealed bins and clean them out regularly 
·     Remove any standing water whilst keeping an eye on collection points
·     Remove dead flies from floors/window seals 
·     If you have pets, make sure to clean up after them in the garden as their excrement attracts flies 

If you have an infestation, then we strongly suggest calling a pest controller as we can deal with the active flies but also the ones in hibernation.