Flies are common insects whose populations surge at specific times of the year. Their numbers fluctuate significantly, as environmental conditions largely influence their proliferation. Understanding these patterns can help in managing their presence around homes and businesses.
When Flies Are Most Active
Fly activity is closely tied to environmental temperatures, with warmer months marking their most active periods. In many regions, flies become highly active starting in late May, peaking in late summer, particularly August. This “fly season” can extend through autumn, often concluding around October as temperatures drop. Fly activity significantly decreases when temperatures fall below 45 degrees Fahrenheit.
Temperature directly influences the metabolic rate and development of flies. Warmer conditions accelerate their life cycles, reducing the time from egg to adult. For instance, a house fly’s life cycle can complete in as little as 6.5 to 10 days under favorable warm conditions. A warm spring acts as a catalyst, allowing multiple generations to emerge rapidly, contributing to increased numbers during summer.
Why Flies Become a Nuisance
Flies become a nuisance due to their rapid reproductive capabilities and attraction to organic materials. Common fly species, such as house flies and fruit flies, undergo a complete metamorphosis. Their entire life cycle can complete quickly, sometimes in as little as 7 to 10 days in warm environments. Females can lay hundreds of eggs, with some species laying over 500 within four days. This rapid breeding in warm, moist conditions contributes to population surges.
Flies are strongly attracted to and thrive in areas with decaying organic matter. They utilize sources like food waste, pet waste, animal manure, and standing water as both food sources and breeding grounds. House flies frequently breed in moist manure. Fruit flies are drawn to overripe fruits, rotting food, and fermenting liquids. These conditions provide necessary nutrients and moisture for larvae to develop, increasing fly populations in human habitats.
Strategies for Mitigation
Managing fly populations involves preventative measures and targeted control methods. Maintaining cleanliness is a primary strategy, as flies are drawn to organic materials. Prompt disposal of waste is an effective deterrent, including ensuring garbage cans have tight-fitting lids and are emptied regularly. Keeping food preparation areas clean and promptly cleaning up spills, especially sweet or fermenting liquids, helps eliminate attractants.
Securing entry points into structures is important for reducing fly presence indoors. Installing and maintaining screens on windows and doors prevents flies from entering living spaces. Any gaps or cracks in foundations, walls, or around utility lines should be sealed to block potential access points.
For outdoor areas, managing pet waste by regularly cleaning up animal droppings removes breeding sites and food sources. Control methods like sticky traps can help manage existing fly numbers.