Cluster Flies
Cluster flies are a seasonal phenomenon in domestic properties, occurring generally in September and October, before hibernating until Spring, when they try to leave the property and start their life cycle again. Cluster flies lay their eggs in soil which then emerge over a period of a few weeks. They usually return to the place previously occupied by their parents, following the pheromone trail of their mothers. One treatment may kill the parent flies, however the next generation of flies will go back to the same place and continue the cycle, so further treatments need to take place over a six week period. The cluster fly will not cause any health problems for householders.
The best and most effective method for controlling cluster flies in buildings is to prevent them from entering in the first place. Once infested it can be very difficult to stop or reduce the problem because flies will hide in all voids within the roof space. They can become active at any time if the temperature within the roof increases enough to make them think spring has arrived.
Treatment
Chemical treatment is effective in respect of a 'knockdown' effect, but will never completely stop the problem. The Pest Control Officer could undertake this service on your behalf, but you can take your own precautions to help achieve the same result.
Firstly, ensure that no evidence of bats can be seen in the roof. Bats are a protected species and professional advice should be sought before any treatment is undertaken. Please see the contact information below.
These simple solutions should reduce any problems in the house:
Flying Insect Killer
Frequently spray a large amount of a good quality flying insect spray into the roof space and close the hatch. This should provide a 'knockdown' effect which will prevent the Cluster flies entering the main rooms of the house.
Glueboard Fly Machines
These machines can be used in loft spaces. They provide a light to attract the flies and a glueboard which the fly sticks to. They do not harm any other animals, including bats, because of the fine grill. Care does have to be taken due to the low heat the machines give off. Regular checks are required to ensure the boards do not need replacing.
Both of the above should be available from hardware and farm supply stores near you.
Chemical treatment by North Shropshire District Council will only provide the same 'knockdown' effect and not solve the potentially ongoing cluster fly problem.
Useful information
Pest control websites
Information about bats
Bats Conservation Trust or email enquiries@bats.org.uk
Related Information - Pest Control
Cluster Flies leaflet - 2008/09
Related Documents
Environmental Health and Street Scene Service Standards
Charges - Domestic properties - from 1 April 2008
| Flies (inside house only) | |
|---|---|
| Normal Charge | £40.00 |
| For people in receipt of Income Support, Income Based Job Seekers Allowance, Working Tax Credit, Benefit, Council Tax Benefit, Pension Credit (guarantee element) | £20.00 |
Charges - Business Premises - from 1 April 2008
| Rats, mice, wasps, ants, flies and bees etc | |
|---|---|
| First hour | £40.00 |
|
Subsequent hours (travelling time included) |
£31.00 thereafter |
| Annual contracts | Price on application |
| email: | envhealth@northshropshiredc.gov.uk |
|---|---|
| telephone: | 01939 238460 |
| fax: | 01939 238468 |
