Flies are one of the most annoying pests we have to contend with. They are not only a nuisance, but they can also spread disease and cause health issues. Knowing how to identify a fly problem, control it, prevent it and understand the lifecycle of the fly can help you keep your home or business free of these pesky pests.
Signs of a Fly Problem
The most obvious sign that you have a fly problem is seeing a number of flies buzzing around. However, there are other signs to look out for as well. If you notice clusters of maggots or larvae in your trash cans or near food sources, then that is a sure sign that you have a fly infestation. You may also find small dark spots on surfaces in your home or business which are fly droppings.
How to Get Rid of Flies
The first step in getting rid of flies is to identify where they are coming from. If you can locate the source of the problem, then you can take steps to eliminate it. Some methods for getting rid of flies include:
– Using traps such as sticky paper strips or electric zappers
– Spraying insecticides around the edges of windows and doors
– Removing potential breeding grounds such as standing water and piles of organic matter
– Installing screens on windows and doors
– Setting up fans to create an airflow that will blow away flies.
How to Prevent Flies
The best way to keep flies away is to prevent them from entering into your home or business in the first place. This can be done by making sure all garbage cans are sealed tight, emptying garbage cans frequently, keeping food stored away in airtight containers, cleaning up any spills promptly, and sealing cracks and crevices where flies may enter. If your property has a lot of outdoor vegetation and standing water, then it may be necessary to invest in some pest control measures such as using insecticides or introducing beneficial insects such as ladybugs.
What Attracts Flies
Flies are attracted to certain smells and tastes associated with food, garbage and human waste. They are also attracted to certain colors such as yellow and white which resemble flowers. Other attractants include light, heat and moisture.
What Does a Fly Eat?
Flies typically feed on decaying organic matter such as garbage, animal feces and dead animals. They may also feed on human food sources such as sugary drinks and fruits.
Where Does a Fly Hide?
Flies prefer dark places where they can hide from predators such as spiders or birds. They may hide under furniture or in cracks in walls or ceilings. Flies also tend to congregate in damp areas such as near drains or sinks.
What is the Lifecycle of a Fly?
The lifecycle of a fly consists of four stages: egg, larva (maggot), pupa (cocoon) and adult fly. The entire process takes about two weeks depending on the species and environmental conditions.
Can a Fly Lay Eggs?
Yes, female flies lay eggs which hatch into larvae (maggots) within 24 hours. Female flies can lay up to 500 eggs in their lifetime.
What Size is a Fly?
The size of a fly depends on the species, but most houseflies are about 6mm long while fruit flies measure around 4mm long.
What Time of Year is a Fly Most Active?
Flies are most active during the summer months when temperatures are warmest. However, some species will remain active during winter months if temperatures stay above freezing.
Conclusion
Understanding how to identify, control and prevent flies is essential for keeping our homes and businesses free from these annoying pests. Taking simple steps such as storing food properly, removing potential breeding grounds, installing screens on windows and doors, using traps or insecticides, and understanding the lifecycle of the fly can help us keep our environments free from these irritating creatures.