Cluster flies are the only type of fly that we treat for. All flies however are a public health risk due to their feeding habits, carrying diseases from one food source to another.
Reason for control
Flies
- The common house fly and similar species carry a number of diseases such as typhoid, gastro diseases and parasitic worms.
Cluster flies
- During the summer and early autumn these flies do not cause a problem.
- It is in the late autumn and winter when these flies look for shelter that they can be a problem.
- The large amount of flies that congregate can cause a sickly smell.
- If the temperature warms up they can emerge sluggishly and cause problems in living spaces.
Biology
- Cluster Fly (Pollenia rudis).
- Life cycle: Egg – Larva – Pupa – Adult.
- The adult is about 6mm long, blackish with fine gold hairs.
- The eggs are laid under rotting matter.
- The larvae parasitise earthworms by boring through the worm and developing inside.
- Adult flies feed on nectar of flowers.
- There are often two generations per year.
Prevention and Control
Flies
- Cover food stuff.
- Bins and rubbish should be covered.
- Drains should be cleared and kept clean.
- Doors and windows should be fly screened.
Cluster flies
- It is not practical to treat the flies outside and they do not breed inside.
- The best method is to try to prevent the flies entering premises.
- Caulking around window frames and sealing holes can help to prevent flies entering.
Treatment
- Once inside if the flies can be seen in clusters a vacuum cleaner can be used to remove them.
- Insecticide treatments can be used although the area must be surveyed to check for bats, which are a protected animal. Guildford Borough Council uses a space spray containing 1.46% w/w Permethrin.
Contact the pest control officer for further advice and an appointment.
Useful contacts for pest control matters
Environmental Health Department
Guildford Borough Council
Millmead House
Millmead
Guildford
GU2 4BB
Tel: 01483 444371
Fax: 01483 444546
Email: environmentalhealth@guildford.gov.uk