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Cluster Flies Overwinter in Homes

Two cluster flies rest on a light textured surface, one fly positioned atop the other. Their transparent wings and dark bodies catch the sunlight, casting soft shadows and highlighting an iridescent sheen, as they seek warmth in homes to overwinter.

Noticing a cluster of flies in your home all of a sudden? You may have a cluster fly infestation. As the temperature drops, cluster flies may seek shelter in your home to live through the winter months. In this blog post, we’ll delve deeper into what cluster flies are and what you can do to keep them out of your home this winter.

What Are Cluster Flies?

Cluster flies, also known as attic flies, are different than a common housefly. You can distinguish a cluster fly because it is larger, it has yellow or golden hair on its lower half, and its wings overlap while at rest.

Where Do Cluster Flies Come From?

Cluster flies don’t die when winter approaches. They overwinter– or ride out winter. They’ll shelter in fence posts or under rocks. They can even enter your home through vents, open windows, or door gaps. Cluster flies are most commonly found:

  • In attics
  • In closets
  • Under rugs
  • Behind furniture
  • In wall voids
  • Around vents

What Are the Risks of Cluster Flies?

Cluster flies don’t pose any health risks to people and they aren’t attracted to food or garbage. They breed in soil and host in the bodies of earthworms during their larval stage. Then when grown, they feed on flower nectar. They may leave dark spots on walls with their droppings.

How to Get Rid of Cluster Flies

Swatting a cluster fly is easy because they move slower compared to house flies. But as with any pest, prevention is key. There are several methods you can try to help prevent cluster flies from entering your home this winter:

  • Ensure doors and windows are sealed (or have screens)
  • Seal gaps around your chimney, roofing or pipes, and siding
  • Install fly traps

It’s also important to note that if you kill a cluster fly, clean up afterward as this will attract other pests.

If you are dealing with a more serious cluster fly infestation, call PURCOR. Our highly-skilled pest control technicians are trained to help manage a wide range of pests here in the Portland and Vancouver area including cluster flies. We’ll create a customized solution for you and quickly and efficiently remove your unwanted pest! Contact us today for a free quote!

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