Why Do I Suddenly Have Large Flies In My House

Why Do I Suddenly Have Large Flies in My House?

What Causes Flies To Start Invading Your House

Finding large flies in your home can be both alarming and frustrating. These pests can be more than just an annoying nuisance; they can carry diseases and contaminate food, making it very important to understand why they are suddenly appearing in your home and family living space. This comprehensive guide will help you understand the reasons behind a sudden infestation of large flies, help identify common types of flies, and provide strategies to control and prevent infestations. Remember, if the situation becomes overwhelming, contact a professional pest control company to come in and help eliminate these flies.

Basic Fly Characteristics

Flies are insects belonging to the order Diptera, characterized by having a single pair of wings. Common indoor fly species include house flies (Musca domestica), cluster flies (Pollenia rudis), fruit flies (Drosophila spp.), and drain flies (Psychodidae spp.). Each species has unique behaviors and preferences that influence their presence in your home.

They Are Attracted To Food & Opportunistic Breeding Sites

Flies are attracted to environments with ample food sources and suitable breeding grounds. House flies are drawn to decaying organic matter, such as garbage and pet waste. Fruit flies prefer ripe or fermenting fruits and vegetables, while drain flies thrive in moist environments like clogged drains and sewage systems. Cluster flies, on the other hand, breed in the ground using earthworms as a food source for their larvae and seek indoor spaces to overwinter.

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Common Reasons Why Flies Invade Your House

Decaying Organic Matter (Like Rotting Food)

One of the most common reasons for a fly infestation is the presence of decaying organic matter. Flies are scavengers that consume dead and dying matter, making garbage cans, compost piles, and pet waste prime breeding grounds. Adult flies lay their eggs in these materials, leading to an explosion of fly populations when the eggs hatch.

Warm Weather

Flies thrive in warm temperatures, which accelerate their breeding cycle. Temperatures of 75 degrees Fahrenheit and above are ideal for most fly species. Warm conditions inside your home, especially in areas like bathrooms, laundry rooms, and kitchens, can provide a perfect environment for flies to lay eggs and develop.

Structural Vulnerabilities In Your House

Cracks, gaps, and openings in your home's foundation, windows, and doors can provide easy entry points for flies. Cluster flies, in particular, seek out small crevices around window frames and door frames to enter buildings. Once inside, they often hibernate in attics or false ceilings, becoming active again when temperatures rise.

Common Types of Flies

House Flies

House flies are attracted to decaying organic matter and are commonly found in garbage, pet waste, and compost. They can lay hundreds of eggs in moist areas, leading to rapid population growth.

Cluster Flies

Cluster flies are often confused with house flies but can be identified by their slower flight and tendency to fly toward windows on the warm side of a structure. They breed in the ground during warm weather and enter homes to overwinter through small cracks and crevices.

Blow Flies

Blow flies are larger and often have a metallic sheen. They are typically attracted to dead animals and can indicate the presence of a carcass within your home.

Things You Can Do To Prevent & Control Flies

Sanitize Your Common Food Areas Frequently

Maintaining cleanliness is crucial in preventing fly infestations. Dispose of garbage regularly, clean trash cans, and remove pet waste promptly. Store food in sealed containers and clean up spills immediately. Use common cleaning products to disinfect areas where food has been prepared. Vinegar is a fantastic option for an eco-friendly and non-toxic cleaning product that works great to detract flies.

Close Any Open Holes In Your Home

Inspect and repair screens on windows and doors to prevent flies from entering your home. Seal cracks and gaps in your home's foundation, walls, and around windows and doors. Replace broken screens whenever you can. Re-caulk exterior areas around windows and doors if you notice any gaps.

Environmental Control

Reduce moisture in areas where flies are likely to breed, such as bathrooms, kitchens, and basements. Use dehumidifiers and fix any leaks to create an inhospitable environment for flies. Do not leave water sitting in open sinks or buckets for long periods of time.

Chemical Control

If necessary, use fly traps and insecticides to reduce fly populations. Place fly traps near windows, doors, and other entry points. Follow instructions carefully to avoid health risks.

Why It Might Be Worth Hiring a Professional

While many fly infestations can be managed with proactive measures, there are times when professional intervention is necessary:

The infestation persists despite your efforts.
The source of the infestation is difficult to locate or access.
There are health or safety concerns associated with the flies.
The infestation involves potentially harmful or nuisance species.

Professional pest control services can assess the severity of the infestation, identify contributing factors, and implement targeted strategies to eradicate flies safely and effectively. They can also provide guidance on preventive measures to reduce the risk of future infestations.

A sudden influx of large flies in your home can be troubling, but understanding the reasons behind their presence and taking proactive measures can help you control and prevent infestations. Maintain proper sanitation, seal entry points, and reduce environmental factors that attract flies. If the problem persists, seeking professional pest control services is the best way to ensure your home remains fly-free.

At Redmond Pest Control by Bamboo, we are committed to helping you maintain a pest-free home. Our comprehensive pest control services are designed to target the root causes of infestations, ensuring your peace of mind. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you get rid of large flies and other pests for good.