Fly Guide
THE DANGERS: WHY WE CONTROL FLIES
RISKS FLIES POSE TO HUMANS
Flies in the uk can pose health risks to humans by carrying disease and contaminating food and surfaces with bacteria. They can spread illnesses like food poisoning and although rare, flies can transmit disease through bites. Practicing good sanitation levels and keeping fly populations at a low is crucial to preventing these risks.
Did you know:
Houseflies can carry over 100 pathogens that cause diseases in humans and animals! They can spread bacteria such as E. coli and Salmonella, making in crucial to keep at bay during the warm summer months.
FLY BIOLOGY
TYPES OF FLY IN THE UK
In the United Kingdom alone, there are over 7000 species of fly, lets take a look at some of the most common types:
Housefly: Britain's most notorious fly, everyone if familiar with the house fly as this species is known for disturbing us, especially when food is nearby. Theses flies are usually 6 to 8mm in size and can be recognised by their slightly pointed wings and stripes on their back.
Bluebottle: These flies are commonly found flying around bins and wast. Blue bottles are bigger than the common house fly, ranging from around 9 to 11mm in size and larger. Blue bottles are easily recognisable by their metallic blue colour.
Fruitflies: A tiny pest which can often be seen swarming food. Fruitflies are highly attracted to fermenting fruit and alcohol, making them a troublesome pub pest, taking advantage of drinks when spilled. Ranging from 2 to 3mm in size, the easiest way to recognise these flies is by the swarms they so often appear in.
WHAT ATTRACTS FLIES
Flies become most active in the late summer months, with households most commonly experiencing fly troubles in August and September.
There's many things which could attract flies to your home, with the list below highlighting things that flies simply can't resist:
- Bad waste management - bins which are overspilling or don't have their lids closed
- Animal carcasses - The decaying carcasses of animals such as rodents which may of found their way into your attic or under your floorboards.
- Pet faces - One of the most obvious fly attractants, an opportunity a fly can't turn down.
- Fizzy drinks and alcohol - More specifically when spilled or left open, flies are attracted to the fermenting fruits of the alcohol and the sweetness of spilled drinks.
SIGNS FLEAS ARE AROUND
Fly Sightings - The obvious one, seeing flies frequently in your property is a major hint.
Clusters of dark spots - In corners and light areas. Clusters of tiny dark spots could indicate an area of regular fly activity.
Maggots - These are flies in their larval stage, finding maggots could be a sign of quite a serious fly infestation.
Did you know:
There are more than 7,000 species of fly in the UK! And it is estimated that there are over 110,000 species of fly globally!
WHY FLIES ARE MORE COMMON IN THE SUMMER MONTHS
Like many pests, flies are more common in the summer due to the warm weather, which benefits and speeds up their reproduction. The warmer temperatures provide conditions which accelerate the development of fly eggs into larvae and then into adult flies, leading to a rapid increase in their population during the summer months.
The summer climates also provide an abundance of food sources from natural food sources such as fruits from bushes and trees, but also food sources from people dining outdoors for barbecues and picnics, this only contributed to flies rapid growth in the summer. The longer days also provide flies with more time to forage and mate. Warmer climates create ideal environments for flies to thrive, as they prefer warm and moist surroundings.
These factors combined make summer a peak season for fly activity, emphasising the importance of controlling their populations to prevent health risks and ensure a more pleasant outdoor experience.
MANAGING FLIES
PREVENTING FLIES
Practice good waste management - Keep waste areas tidy and ensure all waste is in tightly sealed bin bags before being places into bins.
Thoroughly clean up spilled drinks - If a drink is spilled make sure to clean it up thoroughly, leaving no residues for the flies to get a taste of.
Throw away decaying food - Avoid leaving any expired foods in the open to decay, these make for the perfect place for flies to lay their eggs.
Pick up pet faeces - Don't leave pet faeces in litter trays or gardens to attract flies.
Regularly clean your home - Regularly deep clean your home, this not only helps to prevent fly infestations but also to find them quicker, making them easier to combat.
DIY FLY CONTROL
For smaller fly problems, you may be able to tackle the problem yourself, with amateur use products such as fly sprays and glue strips, which can be bought from many supermarkets in the UK.
WARNING - Always read the label thoroughly before using any treatment products. Also, never apply any products intended for your home to your pet's skin or fur.
PROFESSIONAL FLY CONTROL
Dealing with a fly infestation demands specialised expertise due to the resilience and rapid reproduction of these tiny pests. Contego, a leading pest control company in the UK, excels in addressing the complexities of fly-related issues.
Our team of professionals is well-versed in managing fly infestations, ensuring a swift and effective resolution. Opting for Contego means choosing a solution backed by experience and a commitment to quality service.
We understand the importance of preventing secondary risks to non-target areas, and our experts are equipped to handle the aftermath with precision. When it comes to fly problems, seeking professional help is key, and Contego is here to provide the expertise needed for a thorough and lasting solution. Trust us to safeguard your environment responsibly.
