Could You Have A Cluster Fly Infestation?

Cluster flies often invade homes and businesses in large numbers. They seek shelter in lofts, wall voids and other warm spaces. During spring and autumn, these pests become particularly noticeable. While they do not pose health risks, their presence can be frustrating. This post looks at why they come indoors and how to manage a cluster fly infestation effectively, whether that’s your home or business.

Why Do Cluster Flies Invade?

Cluster flies look for warm places to hibernate. In autumn, they gather in buildings to escape the cold. As temperatures rise in spring, they emerge in large numbers. Unlike houseflies, cluster flies breed outdoors in soil, feeding on earthworms. They enter properties through small gaps around windows, roofs and walls. Once inside, they settle in attics and other undisturbed areas.

These pests do not reproduce indoors, but their presence can be overwhelming. When they emerge, they gather near windows, creating a nuisance. Dead flies also attract other pests, making infestations worse. Preventing entry and sealing gaps can reduce their numbers. To tell the difference between a cluster fly infestation and other flies, you can think first of their name. They ‘cluster’, or gather together, in groups.

Cluster flies are also larger and slower than house flies, with a dull greyish-brown body covered in golden hairs. Their wings overlap when at rest, unlike house flies, whose wings stay slightly apart. Cluster flies are sluggish indoors, often found near windows in autumn and winter as they seek warmth. Unlike house flies, they don’t breed in rubbish or food; their larvae develop in earthworm burrows. Bluebottles are shinier and more metallic, while fruit flies are much smaller with red eyes. A cluster fly infestation also emits a distinctive, musty smell when disturbed, helping to differentiate them from other flies.

How to Manage a Cluster Fly Infestation

Managing a cluster fly infestation requires multiple steps. Sealing entry points helps prevent them from returning. Checking for cracks around windows, vents and roof spaces can reduce access. Using fine mesh screens can also stop flies from entering through gaps.

Vacuuming is an effective way to remove cluster flies indoors. Regular cleaning prevents dead insects from attracting more pests. Fly traps and insecticides can also help control infestations. However, professional pest control services provide the most reliable results.

Since cluster flies return yearly, long-term prevention is essential. Keeping buildings well-maintained and sealing gaps minimises future issues.

Understanding the habits of cluster flies makes it easier to control their numbers. By taking preventative measures early, homes and businesses stay pest-free. Professional pest control ensures these persistent pests do not return. Give us a call and we can deal with a cluster fly infestation and any other fly problems you are encountering.

Main photo courtesy TristramBrelstaff under the Creative Commons Attribution-Share Alike 3.0 Unported license.