Flies & Fly Control
What are flies?
Flies are insects belonging to the order Diptera, which means “two wings.” They are characterized by having a single pair of functional wings, as the second pair has evolved into small, club-like structures called halteres. Flies are found worldwide and are known for their ability to hover, fly quickly, and move in various directions.
What Causes Flies Around Your House?
Several factors can cause flies to gather around your house. Understanding these factors can help you effectively deal with fly infestations and prevent their recurrence.
Food sources: Flies are attracted to exposed food, including fruits, vegetables, garbage, and even pet food. They have a keen sense of smell and can detect food from a considerable distance. Flies lay their eggs on decaying organic matter, such as food waste or animal droppings, providing a suitable environment for their larvae to thrive.
To minimize fly attraction:
- Clean up food spills promptly.
- Store fruits and vegetables properly.
- Keep your kitchen and dining areas clean.
- Dispose of garbage regularly in sealed containers.
Moisture: Flies are also attracted to moisture. They seek out damp areas, leaking pipes, and standing water, which serves as breeding grounds for them. By eliminating these moisture sources, you can significantly reduce the presence of flies in your home.
To address moisture issues:
- Repair any leaking pipes or faucets.
- Ensure proper drainage to prevent water accumulation.
- Remove standing water from buckets, trays, or flower pots.
- Keep bathrooms and other areas prone to moisture clean and dry.
Warmth: Flies are more active in warm temperatures, so they may be attracted to your house during the summer months when it is warmer. Open windows and doors can allow flies to enter, especially if screens are not in place.
To minimize fly entry:
Install fly screens on windows and doors to prevent flies from entering your home while still allowing fresh air to circulate.
Ensure that screens are in good condition, without any tears or holes that flies could squeeze through.
How to get rid of flies?
Here are some effective methods to control and eliminate flies:
Fly traps: Fly traps are devices that attract and capture flies. There are various types available, including sticky traps and baited traps. Sticky traps have adhesive surfaces that trap flies when they land on them, while baited traps use attractants to lure flies and trap them.
Place fly traps in areas where flies are commonly seen, such as near windows, garbage bins, or outdoor dining areas.
Fly swatters or electric fly zappers: Physical elimination of flies is another effective method. Swatting flies with a fly swatter can be a quick and efficient way to kill them. Alternatively, electric fly zappers use UV light to attract flies and deliver a small electric shock upon contact.
Use fly swatters or electric fly zappers in areas where flies are present, ensuring safety precautions are taken when using electric zappers.
Natural repellents: Certain scents and substances are known to repel flies. You can use natural repellents to deter flies from entering your home or specific areas.
Essential oils such as citronella, eucalyptus, lavender, and lemongrass can be effective fly repellents. Mix a few drops of these oils with water and spray the solution in fly-prone areas.
Vinegar can also be used as a fly repellent. Fill a spray bottle with equal parts vinegar and water, then spray it in areas where flies congregate.
Cleanliness and hygiene: Maintaining cleanliness in and around your home is crucial for fly control. By removing potential breeding grounds and reducing food sources, you can discourage flies from infesting your space.
- Clean up food spills promptly and ensure that food is stored in sealed containers.
- Regularly empty and clean trash bins, using tightly sealed bags.
- Clean pet areas regularly, disposing of feces promptly.
- Keep outdoor areas clean and free from decaying organic matter.
Professional pest control: If your fly infestation persists despite your efforts, it may be necessary to seek professional pest control services. Central Pest control experts have the knowledge, experience, and specialized tools to effectively eliminate flies and implement long-term prevention strategies.
For more information about Flies Pest Control in Dublin, please contact us!
FAQ?
- Are flies harmful?
Flies can pose health risks as they can transfer disease-causing bacteria and pathogens. They can contaminate food surfaces, utensils, and exposed food, leading to foodborne illnesses. Some fly species can also bite and cause discomfort.
2. How long do flies live?
The lifespan of a fly can vary depending on the species, environmental conditions, and availability of food sources. Generally, adult houseflies live for about 15 to 30 days.
3. Why is my home filled with so many flies?
Flies are attracted to factors like exposed food, moisture, and warmth. If your house provides suitable conditions for flies to breed and find sustenance, they will be attracted to it.
4. How do flies reproduce?
Flies undergo a complete metamorphosis, consisting of four stages: egg, larva, pupa, and adult. Adult female flies lay their eggs on suitable substrates, such as decaying organic matter. The eggs hatch into larvae, commonly known as maggots, which feed on organic material. The larvae then pupate, and eventually, adult flies emerge from the pupae.
5. Are there natural ways to repel flies?
Yes, several natural methods can help deter flies from your home or specific areas. These include using plants with fly-repelling properties, such as basil, mint, and marigold. Additionally, essential oils like citronella, eucalyptus, lavender, and lemongrass have fly-repellent properties. Mixing a few drops of these oils with water and spraying the solution can help keep flies away.
By understanding the causes of fly infestations and employing effective preventive measures and elimination techniques, you can significantly reduce the presence of flies in your home. Maintaining cleanliness, eliminating food sources and breeding grounds, and using traps or repellents can contribute to a fly-free living environment. If necessary, consult professional pest control services for persistent fly infestations.
