Cluster Fly Control Dorchester

Cluster Flies

Commonly found throughout Europe and the UK, their name refers to their habit of clustering together in large numbers and hibernating in buildings. Their sizes vary from 6 – 10mm depending on the species, being only slightly larger than the average house fly and appear to fly. As well as being slightly larger, they also tend to be more sluggish in flight. They can be recognised by the distinctive strips behind their head along with the short, golden hairs on the thorax and a mottled grey abdomen.

Cluster Fly Life Cycle

Cluster fly eggs are laid on damp soil or beneath dead and rotting leaves which hatch within a few days to become parasitic larvae that predate on earthworms. Before becoming fully-fledged adults, they moult and pupate in the soil. Once they emerge as adults, they will look for warmth and shelter to hibernate over the coming winter. As a free-living insect, the length of the life cycle is weather dependent. In Britain, it is usual to see two generations of cluster flies, however with our recent hot summers up to four is now possible. As the season cools, cluster flies seek shelter inside our homes and buildings. They usually enter through gaps in roofs, cracks, attics, and eaves, often settling in warm, sun-facing spaces.

Cluster Fly Treatment

Urban Pest Control can offer different cluster fly treatment methods depending on the size of the infestation. An insecticide ULV fogging machine or smoke generator can be applied to voids such as lofts whilst a residual insecticide spray may be applied around windows, ceilings and walls. All treatments carried out adhere to COSHH (Control of Substances Hazardous to Heath) Regulations 2002.

Guarantee

One treatment is often enough to deal with the main infestation and drastically reduce numbers, however with ‘new flies’ constantly entering it is not always possible to completely eradicate all flies. Because of this, it is recommended that a premises should be treated twice a year due to the cluster fly life cycle.