WHY ARE THESE LARGE, BLACK, SLOW-MOVING FLIES IN MY
WHY ARE THESE LARGE, BLACK, SLOW-MOVING FLIES IN MY
Why Are These Large, Black, Slow-Moving Flies in My Home?
Question: Hello, I have noticed large, black, slow-moving flies around my home. One day I found 20 within a matter of 30 minutes. I am curious as to why there are so many, and why they are hanging around my home? They tend to hang inside and outside of my four-season, fully windowed porch. Please advise. Thank you!
Answer: The flies you are seeing are likely cluster flies. Although they resemble common house flies, they have a different life cycle. Cluster flies often appear inside homes during the fall and winter.
The life cycle of a cluster fly starts in the spring when they emerge from their overwintering sites and lay eggs in the soil. The larvae (maggots) of cluster flies parasitize earthworms. Multiple generations of these flies can develop during the summer, with females repeatedly laying eggs in the soil. By late August, the last generation of flies seeks protected locations to spend the winter, often gathering on the sunny sides of buildings.
During the winter, cluster flies remain relatively inactive in attics and wall voids. They become active again in late summer and early fall, searching for suitable overwintering sites, which often leads them to homes in large numbers.
Controlling cluster flies can be challenging. It is recommended to contact your local Orkin Branch office. A trained Orkin Pest Specialist can conduct a thorough inspection of your home and develop a customized, scientifically proven treatment plan.
Related Questions Answered by Orkin:
Question: We have a big fly problem in our house. Every day I kill many flies, and some days hundreds. Our house is clean, and we’ve never had this problem until this winter. What do we need to do?
Answer: The flies you are dealing with are likely cluster flies. Although they resemble house flies, they have a different life cycle and are common indoors during this time of year. For effective control, consult a professional Pest Specialist who can assess the situation and implement appropriate treatment methods.
For further assistance and to schedule an inspection, please contact your local Orkin Branch office.
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