What are flies?
Flies are unique insects with two pairs of wings instead of one pair. They belong to the order Diptera, which means “two wings.” Two of the most common species that invade residential and commercial properties in our area of California are the common house fly and the fruit fly.
Flies are problematic pests as they are prolific breeders, and an infestation can develop quickly, taking over any indoor or outdoor space that provides them with places to feed and breed. Outside and away from people and our food, flies are helpful, breaking down decaying plant and animal matter, but when living close to people, flies become dangerous and unwanted pests.
Are flies dangerous?
Flies are not only annoying to deal with, but they are dangerous. The biggest reason why these pests are harmful is because of the health risks they pose for people. Flies land and feed on decaying matter and in doing so, pick up a variety of bacteria, pathogens, and parasites on their legs and bodies. As they move about your home, landing on counters, cutting boards, and food, they contaminate them.
Why do I have a fly problem?
Flies become a problem wherever there is food, areas to breed, and the right environmental conditions. Usually, the spring and summer season is when flies are most active. Garbage, compost, manure, and carrion all act as feeding and breeding grounds for flies.
Once flies are living outside on your property, they quickly find a way inside. Just simply opening your door to go out gives sneaky flies enough time to move inside. Other common entry points for these pests include spaces that develop around windows and doors, torn screens, and exterior walls gaps.
Fruit flies move into homes on their own or on produce purchased from the store infested with their larvae or eggs. Once inside, our homes often provide flies with the food and water sources they need to survive, such as produce on counters, dirty dishes, clogged drains, and leaky fixtures.
Where will I find flies?
Flies live in large populations and swarm around things like trash bins, compost piles, pet excrement, pet food, gardens, and areas of standing water. Inside, kitchens, bathrooms, pantries, and areas around drains and sump pumps are common gathering places for flies.
How do I get rid of flies?
Keep flies out of your home with the help of professional pest control experts. At Malang Pest Control, we are committed to protecting people and property from pests. Our priority is our customers and providing them with the services needed to maintain pest-free properties. Using a low-impact approach, botanical or organic products, and integrated pest management, we provide pest control services you can count on.
To rid your property of filth flies and other common pests, contact Malang Pest Control today and learn more about our home pest control or commercial pest control offerings.
How can I prevent flies in the future?
Prevent flies in the future by partnering with Malang Pest Control, and using the following prevention tips:
- Seal up cracks in the foundation and exterior walls of your home.
- Place screens in open windows and doors.
- Make sure outdoor trash cans and compost bins have locking or tight-fitting lids on them.
- Clean-up after pets daily.
- Inspect produce for fruit fly activity before purchasing it.
- Store food in your home either in the refrigerator or in containers with airtight lids; never leave food out on counters or tables.
- Maintain sinks and drains, making sure they are free of food and other debris.