Are Autumn flies causing you a problem?

Nov. 8, 2010 - PRLog -- If staff, especially ones in top floor offices, are complaining about flies – it’s probably cluster flies causing the problem.
Cluster flies or Pollenia rudis are ‘field’ flies – they lay eggs in the soil and the larvae burrow into earthworms. As the weather becomes cooler, they seek out shelter in nooks and crannies in buildings to hibernate and may be seen in large numbers, particularly in roof spaces and lofts. Sometimes there are several thousand flies clustered together – hence their common name. They will usually infest the highest warm point available – and this is often the top floor of offices.
Cleankill Managing Director Paul Bates explains: “As cluster flies don’t breed indoors, controlling them outside is impractical. It’s often impossible to keep flies from entering premises, no matter how well sealed or modern the property is. The flies enter through air vents, breathing points in mortar, roof tiles and even through gaps in modern double glazing.”
Insecticidal spraying around window and door frames and other entry points can help. Once flies are inside, control can be achieved with a range of insecticides and electronic ultra-violet fly machines.
While there is a specific species of common cluster fly, there are other species of cluster fly and swarming flies which have a similar hibernating nature and these may also be involved in forming mixed populations of flies inside suitable buildings.
The life cycle of the cluster fly is very much dependent on the prevailing weather conditions, and in this country, two generations a year are usual but, in hot summers, up to four generations per year are possible.
Curiously, a single house or one building in a row of similar buildings is often chosen year after year for this clustering phenomenon.
Large numbers of cluster flies hibernating together are capable of producing a sickly smell and, if their local environment becomes warmer for any reason, they can emerge to fly around, albeit rather lazily. They are attracted to light, and some will find their way into living areas, and the presence of large flies in winter, usually around windows, can cause concern to the building's occupants.
However, while cluster flies can be a source of nuisance on occasion, it is not considered that they pose a risk to human health and their presence should not be taken as evidence of poor hygiene.
Cleankill started in 1995 and is a specialist provider of pest control services to retail, commercial and industrial properties throughout the UK.  The company deals with ‘distress’ pests such as wasps and fleas, as well as preventative maintenance against public health pests such as mice and rats. Cleankill can also clear and proof buildings against pest birds. The company prides itself on fast and efficient service delivery and aims to be recognised as a market leader for innovation and new pest control techniques. For further information go to www.cleankill.co.uk or call 0800 056 5477.

ENDS

Press enquiries: Please call Suzi Christie of Blueberry PR for interview requests or images on 01435 830031 or Cleankill Managing Director Paul Bates on 020 8668 5477.

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