Cluster flies might seem harmless at first, but they can cause significant annoyance for homeowners, especially during colder months. These pests find their way indoors to avoid freezing temperatures, making life uncomfortable for anyone inside. This blog post will explore the life cycle of cluster flies, delve into their reasons for seeking shelter in homes—especially in attics—and discuss practical strategies for effective removal.
What Are Cluster Flies?
Cluster flies, known scientifically as Pollenia rudis, are a common sight in temperate regions. They belong to the Calliphoridae family, which also includes the well-known blowflies. Unlike most flies that thrive in decaying organic matter, cluster flies are often found in residential spaces, looking for warmth during winter.
These flies are identifiable by their dull gray color, yellow hairs covering their bodies, and striking golden eyes. Although they resemble houseflies, cluster flies are slightly larger and have a slower flight pattern, making them easier to catch.
The Life Cycle of Cluster Flies
Understanding the life cycle of cluster flies is crucial for managing and preventing infestations. They undergo a complete metamorphosis, comprising four distinct stages: egg, larva, pupa, and adult.
Egg Stage
Female cluster flies lay tiny eggs in soil during late summer or early fall. Typically, they deposit around 100 to 200 eggs at a time. These eggs hatch within just a few days, yielding larvae commonly referred to as maggots.
Larval Stage
The larvae are parasitic, primarily feeding on earthworms. This stage is particularly important, as the larvae can significantly grow and develop over about a week before they pupate, allowing for continued survival in their habitat.
Pupal Stage
After feeding, the larvae burrow into the soil to pupate. This transformation can take several weeks depending on the temperature and moisture levels in the soil. Once matured, the adult flies emerge from the ground, ready to seek shelter.
Adult Stage
Adults are most active in the fall, which is when they begin looking for warm places to hibernate. They often gather in groups, particularly in attics and wall cavities, where they can be found in numbers ranging from a few dozen to potentially hundreds.
Why Do Cluster Flies Come Inside?
As the temperatures drop, cluster flies are instinctively drawn indoors. Homes provide the necessary shelter and warmth for overwintering. Here are the key factors that attract cluster flies to our homes:
Warmth and Shelter: Attics and wall cavities offer warmth, which resembles their natural habitat and protects them from freezing temperatures.
Light Attraction: Cluster flies are attracted to light. They often congregate near windows and light fixtures, finding their way through gaps in doors and openings around the house.
Overwintering Behavior: Unlike many other pests, cluster flies do not breed indoors during winter. Instead, they enter a dormant state to survive until the warmer months return. This unique behavior helps explain their sudden influx into homes.
Effective Removal Methods
Prevention is the most effective approach, but if cluster flies do find their way indoors, removal becomes essential. Here are some tried-and-true methods:
Sealing Entry Points
Start by sealing any potential entry points around your home. Inspect windows, doors, and walls for cracks or gaps. Use caulk or weather-stripping to close these openings and prevent cluster flies from entering.
Vacuuming
For immediate removal, a strong vacuum cleaner is a practical tool. It can swiftly capture clusters of flies hiding in attics or corners. Remember to dispose of the vacuum bag outside to prevent any captured flies from re-entering your home.
Professional Removal
If you face a major infestation, consider contacting Ellington Family Pest. We will determine how and why the flies entered your home. What the best course action is to take. We utilize a plethora of remediation options both using ultra low volume (ULV) methods and several other strategies to effectively eliminate these flies from your home.
Reclaiming Your Space from Cluster Flies
Understanding the secret life of cluster flies—from their life cycle to their overwintering habits—provides crucial insight for homeowners. By implementing effective prevention and removal strategies, dealing with these seasonal pests becomes manageable.
Be proactive in sealing entry points and using removal methods if needed. With the right approach, you can once again enjoy a peaceful winter without the unwanted presence of cluster flies lingering in your home.