At first glance, cluster flies appear quite similar to the common house fly, but upon a closer look, they are larger, and their wings overlap (in which house flies do not). According to the Government of Canada, cluster flies are around 8 to 10 millimetres long with checkered stomachs and golden hairs on their body.
Why Do Cluster Flies Invade Homes?
Unlike yourself, cluster flies like to spend time in warm places like houses during the freezing cold Canadian winters. In preparation for the winter, these pests look for a cozy, warm place like your house to hibernate for the cold months to awaken when it gets warm out again.
Why are Cluster Flies a Problem?
Luckily enough, these flies do not feed or reproduce inside homes. The real problem with this type of fly is that they produce unpleasant odours, and can stain surfaces upon killing them with blunt force objects like a fly swatter. This is why we recommend using a vacuum to safely trap the fly without squashing it and leaving a mess behind, potentially damaging valuable finishes inside your home.
Signs of a Cluster Fly Infestation
Most infestations occur in the upper regions of your home, such as your attic or the highest floor your home has, and will most likely be noticed in the late summer to early fall when the temperatures start to drop.
Some of the most common signs of infestation include:
- Large amounts of dead or still flies, particularly in the warmest regions of your house
- Unpleasant odours in your house
- Stains on your curtains and/or walls
Cluster Fly Prevention
The most effective way to deal with cluster flies is to prevent them from entering your home in the first place. Here are some effective prevention tips:
- Seal cracks and crevices around windows, doors, and any other potential entry points with caulk or other appropriate sealants.
- Install tight-fitting screens on windows, vents, and other openings.
- Keep doors and windows closed as much as possible, especially during peak fly season.
If cluster flies have already made their way inside, professional pest control services may be required to eliminate the infestation and prevent future problems. Our experienced technicians at Assassin Pest Solution use targeted treatments and exclusion techniques to get rid of cluster flies and secure your home against future invasions. If you suspect you have a cluster fly infestation, don’t hesitate to contact us.