FLIES are a common sight over the summer months.
And, this year’s unusually wet and warm meteorological spring, means the UK could be in for a summer of unwelcome infestations.
Flies thrive in wet and warm weather which accelerates their metabolism, leading to faster development and higher reproduction rates.
The combination of increasing humidity levels in the UK over recent decades, and the upcoming predicted heatwave this month, creates a perfect environment for these insects.
The consequences of fly infestations can be both a nuisance and a public health risk, and some flies can spread diseases such as Salmonella and E. coli.
Not to mention they are incredibly annoying when they buzz around your house.
Fabulous spoke exclusively to Paul Blackhurst, Head of Technical Academy at Rentokil Pest Control about the best ways to get rid of flies – and when you need to call in the professionals.
He said: “A female common house fly can produce up to 500 eggs in her lifetime, which can hatch in just eight to 24 hours and develop from egg to adult fly in as little as five to seven days.
“So it’s vital to get ahead of this all-too-common pest problem before it quickly gets out of hand.”
He added: “In indoor spaces, to help prevent infestations, it’s important to dispose of food waste quickly, cover food compost caddies, and keep kitchen doors and windows screened properly or closed.
“Installing insect screens on doors and windows can also help to keep flies outside, limiting their access to indoor spaces and reducing their contact with food preparation areas.
“Fly traps such as Rentokil Pest Control’s EcoCatch Fly can help limit the volume of flies in outside areas around your home or business before they enter your property.
“DIY fly traps using cider vinegar can also work well, but for persistent infestations, it is recommended to seek professional help.”
When it comes to DIY fly-traps and repellents, Paul said it depends what fly you are dealing with.
For example, cider vinegar and dish soap work well for fruit flies.
“While Rentokil does not endorse any home remedy as being 100 per cent effective, DIY traps using cider vinegar and dish soap (washing up liquid) can help to control fly infestations, particularly in the case of fruit flies,” he said.
“Fruit flies like sugary fermenting substances and will feed on overripe fruit, spilled soft drinks and alcohol.
“So with this being said, the best method of combating these flies is to ensure thorough cleaning takes place regularly, this can reduce the likelihood of breeding by removing potential areas for flies to lay their eggs, as they can reproduce very quickly.
“However, if your home already has an infestation, you can simply fill an old bottle or bowl with a small amount (1-2 cm) of apple cider vinegar (wine or honey can also be used) and a few drops of washing up liquid.
“If you use a bowl, cover this with plastic wrap (cling film) with punctured holes.
Fruit flies will be attracted by the smell of the cider vinegar (wine or honey) and will get stuck within the liquid when they land on it.
As for whether there are any scene flies hate – mint, rosemary, vanilla, lemon, etc.
Paul said: “According to folklore, there are several garden plants and herbs whose fragrance can deter and repel flies.
“Basil, lavender, bay leaf, marigolds, and nasturtiums placed in pots, on window sills or dried in muslin bags to be hung in entrances and windows will supposedly repel flies.
Paul Blackhurst, Head of Technical Academy at Rentokil Pest Control explained why large black house flies like to annoy homeowners by flying in circles.
“Being attracted to lampshades is generally the behaviour of male Lesser House flies.
“This species of fly can be territorial in nature, causing them to gravitate towards central fittings such as lampshades, circling objects in a zig zag type flying pattern.
“During this flight pattern, they will ‘attack’ or ward off other males who try to enter their territory, which can often be a cause of annoyance for anyone present.”
“Historically, marigolds have been grown in greenhouses to deter aphids, and onions to mask attractive scents and discourage carrot flies.
“However, modern-day solutions such as fly-screens and ensuring routine housekeeping practices are upheld are likely to be far more effective at deterring flies in the long term.”
You can buy fly screens from a variety of home stores and online retailers.
Amazon sells a Magnetic Fly Screen Door for as little as £7.98.
Rentokil also has solutions such as the EcoCatch Wasp, Mini Fruit Fly Box, and Lumnia LED Fly Control,
Rentokil Pest Control technicians have several options at their disposal to help proactively control fly numbers.
