How to Keep Flies Away and Enjoy Your Outdoor Space
Are you tired of flies ruining your outdoor gatherings and invading your home? Learning how to get rid of flies outside can make your yard more enjoyable during the summer months and reduce the number of flies that find their way indoors. There are several effective approaches you can take to combat outdoor flies and reclaim your porch or backyard. From eliminating food sources to using natural repellents, we’ve got you covered with tips and tricks to keep those pesky pests at bay.
Understanding Flies: What Do They Look Like?
Before we dive into ways to get rid of flies outside, let’s take a closer look at these pesky insects. Flies belong to the Diptera order of insects and are recognized by their distinctive feature of having only one pair of wings. The common house fly (Musca domestica) is a familiar sight with its buzzing noise and distinctive eyes. Other types of flies you might encounter include cluster flies (Pollenia rudis) and fruit flies (Drosophila melanogaster).
Signs of a Fly Infestation
A few flies buzzing around might not seem like a big deal, but it can quickly escalate into a full-blown infestation. Keep an eye out for these signs that indicate a fly problem is brewing:
- Clusters of small, pinhead-sized spots
- Swarms or a high number of flies
- Presence of maggots
How to Get Rid of Flies Outdoors
When it comes to eliminating flies outside, there are several strategies you can employ to tackle the issue effectively. From eliminating food sources to using natural predators and traps, here are eight ways to get rid of flies outdoors:
1. Eliminate Food Sources and Breeding Areas
The most effective way to combat flies outdoors is to clean up or remove any areas where flies are breeding and feeding. Look for small swarms of flies, which indicate their feeding and egg-laying sites, and take action to eliminate these sources.
2. Seal Buildings
Prevent flies from entering your home by sealing any openings or cracks in your buildings that may serve as entry points for these pests.
3. Encourage Natural Predators
Birds and bats are natural predators of flies and can help keep the population in check. Consider attracting these predators to your yard to help control fly numbers.
4. Trap the Flies
Set up fly traps in areas where flies are most active to capture and eliminate them effectively.
5. Use Fans
Create a breeze with a fan near your outdoor gathering area to deter flies, as they have difficulty flying in strong winds.
6. Light Candles
Citronella candles can help repel flies and mosquitoes, making your outdoor space more pleasant for relaxation and entertainment.
7. Make DIY Fly Strips
Create your own fly strips using materials like paper or tape coated with a sticky substance to trap flies.
8. Trap Flies With Apple Cider Vinegar
Set out containers with apple cider vinegar and dish soap to attract and trap flies effectively, using their attraction to the vinegar’s acetic acid.
What Causes Flies Outdoors?
Flies are attracted to outdoor spaces where there are abundant food sources, moisture, and darkness for breeding. Common causes of fly infestations outdoors include:
- Fresh excrement or decaying matter
- Trash cans and compost piles
- Standing water sources
- Preparation for hibernation
How to Prevent Flies Outdoors
Preventing fly infestations outdoors involves denying them access to food and moisture, which are essential for their reproduction. By implementing various prevention methods, such as proper trash disposal and using natural repellents, you can keep fly populations under control. Here are some additional tips for preventing flies outdoors:
- Store trash in sealed containers
- Replace outdoor lights with insect-resistant bulbs
- Avoid overwatering plants or leaving standing water sources
Using Traditional Spray Pesticides
While chemical pesticides should be a last resort due to fly resistance and environmental concerns, they can be effective in controlling fly populations when other methods have failed. Consider using a proper insecticide fogger for temporary relief before outdoor gatherings.
When to Call a Professional
If you’re dealing with a severe fly infestation or need assistance in controlling the problem, don’t hesitate to contact a pest management professional. They can identify the source of the infestation and provide effective treatment options to eliminate flies from your outdoor space.
Remember that flies can pose health risks by spreading diseases such as cholera, salmonella, and typhoid fever. Taking proactive steps to control fly populations outdoors can help protect your family and guests from potential hazards associated with these pests.
Conclusion
By following these tips and strategies for getting rid of flies outside, you can create a more enjoyable and fly-free outdoor space for relaxation and entertainment. From eliminating food sources to using natural predators and repellents, there are several effective methods you can use to keep flies at bay and reclaim your porch or backyard. Don’t let flies ruin your outdoor activities—take action today to enjoy a pest-free environment all summer long!
