Flies

What are flies?

Flies are small, winged insects; they are differentiated from other insects in Lake Orion because they only have one pair of wings instead of two. Flies are known for being a nuisance to deal with, developing large populations quickly, buzzing in and around our homes, and being difficult to eliminate.

When flies live with people they are unwanted, but outside away from us, they are actually helpful. Flies are a food source for many reptiles, fish, and other animals, and their feeding habits help to get rid of decaying animal matter.

Examples of flies that have adapted to living in the same areas as we do and have become a significant pest concern include:

• Drain flies
• Fruit/Vinegar flies
• Cluster flies

Are flies dangerous?

Since flies only have one pair of wings, they are weak fliers. They are constantly taking off and landing on surfaces, decaying organic matter, and sources of food. Flies carry a variety of bacteria and parasites on their bodies and legs that can make us ill. Having flies moving around our indoor and outdoor eating areas is not only annoying but dangerous. The presence of flies in homes and businesses poses a significant health risk.

Why do I have a fly problem?

Flies are fast breeders, with some species developing from egg to new breeding adults in only a week’s time. Just a couple of flies being attracted to an area can quickly lead to a large infestation. Flies have the ability to become a problem on any property that offers them access to water, food, and breeding sites.

The following feeding and breeding sites may attract flies to your Lake Orion, MI property:

• Open trash cans and recycling bins
• Pet excrement
• Gardens and compost areas
• Outdoor eating areas
• Standing water that develops in places like clogged gutters, low-lying areas, or containers

Where will I find flies?

Where flies prefer to feed and breed depends on their species:

• Drain flies are most problematic around drains where moist organic debris collects. They gather in drains located in kitchens, basements, and bathrooms. Drain flies can also become a problem behind wall spaces or inside crawl spaces where leaky pipes are present or there is poor ventilation.
• Cluster flies most often become a problem inside homes after moving inside to overwinter. Inside our homes, these flies gather inside of attics, behind wall voids, in dark closets, and in crawl spaces. While overwintering, it is common for these pests to emerge from their hiding spots on warm sunny days and gather in the corners of windows.
• Fruit flies feed on and lay their eggs on ripe or decaying fruits or vegetables or fermenting liquids. Inside our homes, they gather in kitchen and bathroom areas, swarming around produce stored on counters, open drink containers, and sticky spills. They can also become a problem around clogged drains that have decaying organic debris within them.

How do I get rid of flies?

Get rid of flies in Lake Orion, MI with the help of Wells Pest Control and our more than 18 years of experience in the pest control industry. We take pride in building close relationships with all our customers and providing them with quality pest control services. Our professionals have a deep understanding of the different pests that live in our area, including their biology and unique behaviors. Their extensive knowledge helps us to identify and eliminate pests from residential or commercial properties as quickly as possible.

If you are ready to learn more about our pest control solutions and how to rid your Lake Orion area home or business of flies, give Wells Pest Control a call today!

How can I prevent flies in the future?

A few simple prevention tips can help stop flies from taking over your home:

• Keep drains and sinks free of debris.
• Make sure that dish rags and mops are allowed to dry out between use. The moisture they hold attracts flies.
• In your kitchen, store fruits and vegetables in the refrigerator instead of on counters or tables.
• Regularly wipe down counters and tables to eliminate sticky spills.
• Pick up pet excrement from your backyard on a daily basis.
• Keep the areas where your pets eat clean and free of leftover food.
• Keep flies out of your home by not propping exterior doors and keeping screens in open windows.
• Place lids on trash cans and recycling bins and regularly empty and sanitize them.

Learn more about our home pest control and commercial pest control solutions.