Mosquitoes and flies are ubiquitous pests that diminish comfort in home and outdoor settings. Beyond simple annoyance, these insects pose public health concerns; mosquitoes are vectors for pathogens like West Nile virus, while flies can transmit bacteria to food. Effective pest management requires a multifaceted approach that addresses the insects’ life cycles, behavior, and environment. This guide explores various strategies for controlling these common flying insects.
Eliminating Breeding Grounds and Attractants
Mosquitoes require standing water for their larval stage, which can complete development in as little as seven to ten days. Eliminating stagnant water sources is the most direct way to control mosquito populations before they hatch. This involves regularly emptying containers such as bird baths, flower pot saucers, and discarded tires. Clogged rain gutters should be cleaned frequently to ensure proper drainage, as they can hold enough water to support large mosquito broods.
Even small depressions in tarpaulins or neglected septic systems can become prolific mosquito nurseries. House flies and blow flies are primarily attracted to decaying organic matter for feeding and egg-laying, making prompt waste management a primary control measure.
Ensuring garbage cans have tight-fitting lids prevents access to the contents and reduces odor attractants. Pet waste must be removed immediately from yards, as it serves as a site for fly reproduction. Exposed compost piles and any rotting fruit or vegetables left outside should be covered or disposed of properly. Removing these sources limits the ability of flies to establish large local populations.
Personal and Area Chemical Repellents
The most reliable defense against biting insects involves applying EPA-registered repellents directly to the skin or clothing. Compounds like N,N-Diethyl-meta-toluamide (DEET) interfere with the insect’s ability to sense human chemical signatures. Concentrations between 20% and 30% DEET offer several hours of protection and are recommended for adults.
Picaridin, a synthetic compound derived from the pepper plant, provides comparable protection to DEET and is often preferred due to its low odor and non-greasy feel. Oil of Lemon Eucalyptus (OLE) is the only plant-derived repellent endorsed by health organizations for its proven efficacy against mosquitoes. When applying these products, especially on children, use lower concentrations and avoid hands and eyes.
For treating clothing, tents, and gear, the insecticide Permethrin is effective as a contact killer for both flies and mosquitoes. Permethrin should never be applied directly to the skin but can be applied to fabric, remaining effective through several washes. This treatment is useful for protecting outdoor workers or travelers. Temporary area control can be achieved using pyrethrin-based foggers or sprays, which quickly reduce active adult populations on patios or decks for short periods.
Physical Barriers and Trapping Methods
Preventing entry into structures is accomplished through the proper use and maintenance of physical barriers. Window and door screens must be free of tears and installed snugly to ensure no gaps exist for insects to pass through. The mesh size of screens is standardized to effectively block mosquitoes and most common flies. Mosquito netting around beds provides localized protection during sleep, especially in areas where insects carry diseases.
Simple devices such as sticky fly ribbons or paper traps are effective at capturing house flies by exploiting their habit of landing on surfaces. These traps use an adhesive and often a mild attractant to ensnare the insects. They are a non-toxic method suitable for use in kitchens and food preparation areas.
Specialized traps that mimic human hosts can provide localized mosquito control outdoors. These devices often use propane or compressed CO2 to simulate the carbon dioxide exhaled by mammals, which mosquitoes use to locate their prey. These traps can reduce local populations over time, but they are intended to supplement, not replace, source reduction. Ultraviolet light (UV) zappers are most effective against night-flying moths and some nuisance flies, but they are not recommended as a primary control method for biting mosquitoes.
Natural Deterrents and Plant-Based Solutions
Many plant-derived oils contain compounds that confuse or repel insects through strong olfactory signals. Citronella is a widely recognized natural deterrent, commonly used in candles and torches to create a localized, temporary barrier against mosquitoes. These natural compounds work by masking the host’s scent or overloading the insect’s olfactory receptors.
Other oils, including peppermint, lavender, and cedarwood, can be diluted with a carrier oil and applied to the skin. Their duration of effectiveness is typically shorter than synthetic options because the volatile organic compounds evaporate quickly, necessitating frequent reapplication. For example, the menthol in peppermint oil acts as an irritant to some fly species. Using diffusers with these oils can saturate a small enclosed area, providing a temporary zone of comfort.
Integrating certain living plants into landscaping or patio areas can offer a mild, continuous level of deterrence. Basil emits a scent that many flies find unpleasant, making it a good choice to place near dining areas. Marigolds release compounds like pyrethrum, which acts as an insect repellent. Planting these herbs and flowers near windows or seating areas contributes to a layered defense against flying pests.