Most will buzz annoyingly around your head and throughout your home making themselves a complete nuisance. View Post. They do not lay their eggs in decaying animal or plant matter, making them less of a threat to people than other species of flies. EAPC Feature in The Sun 01/09/2020. You don’t need to resort to a full-blown extermination when a cluster fly infestation happens. Unlike most species of flies, you can’t associate cluster flies with filth. Despite not being a dangerous pest, keeping cluster flies out of your house is important. Caulk spaces found around exterior windows and doors. Our team can treat affected areas and help seal up any entry points to make your house free of flies this spring. The good news about cluster flies, unlike the other types of flies you see in your home, the Blue Bottle and the House Fly, is that they do not feed on food waste or excrement so are considerably less harmful. Cluster flies do not sting or bite and are not considered to be dangerous and are considered to be nuisance pests. Phone: (608) 825-1000, 4259 N. Prairie View Rd. Are cluster flies dangerous? The grass flies or cluster flies or attic flies are the genus Pollenia in the family Polleniidae are completely harmless to human health. They pose no health threat whatsoever. Cluster Flies are not a sign of poor hygiene. Are cluster flies dangerous to humans? While most flies can spread bacteria, diseases, and create unsanitary conditions, cluster flies are not quite as dangerous. Adult cluster flies feed on pollen from plants, … Cluster flies enter homes in the late summer months and the early fall, looking for somewhere to hibernate as the temperatures drop and winter approaches. are cluster flies dangerous? These include fruit flies, drain flies and cluster flies. However, they might darken the surfaces they gather on with their droppings, and if one dies inside the wall it lives in, it might attract other insects. These household pests are slightly larger than common houseflies and less dangerous. Unlike other insects, they will not lay eggs in food or cause extensive damage to homes. 2803 Capitol Drive, Suite 3 Though Cluster flies are considered a nuisance as overwintering pests, they do not bite humans or animals (other than earthworms), and they do not spread bacteria or lay eggs in food. Cluster flies are often confused with house flies because they tend to look like a very big house fly; however, if you look more closely, you will see that they are lacking the metallic sheen that houseflies possess and have distinct stripes behind their head along with golden hairs on their thorax. Sun Prairie, WI 53590 These flies are not known to carry any diseases and they do not bite. No. Problems with Cluster Flies. Cluster Flies do more, ‘clustering’ than Houseflies (seriously – they do). Cluster flies are unpleasant to have around, but are they dangerous? They breed quickly and can carry disease, so although it may seem that flies are just annoying, they can also be a real threat. Therefore, these cluster flies seek shelter in houses the moment the weather starts to get cold. This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged. Cluster flies pose significantly less danger to people than fruit flies and house flies. 4.9 Read Reviews, Three Easy Tricks To Keep Problematic Wildlife Away From Your Hartford Property, Hartford's Complete Guide To Effective Carpet Beetle Control, What You Ought To Know About Hartford Spiders In The Winter. Why do I … They are strictly parasitic on earthworms; the females lay their eggs near earthworm burrows, and the larvae then feed on the worms. However, unlike some of their other fly relatives, cluster flies do not carry dangerous diseases and they do not bite humans or animals. Cluster flies have short yellow or golden coloured hairs on their thorax. Cluster flies do not bite humans or animals and are not known to carry any diseases. They occur in large numbers, especially at windows and in rooms not frequently used. One common spring pest is cluster flies. Here’s a look at what property owners and business professionals can expect from a cluster fly infestation, and what you can do to keep your building safe from the scourge straight through until spring and beyond. They don’t spread diseases like filth flies and don’t bite or sting people. With that being said, if cluster flies do find their way into your home, it is best to eliminate them as quickly as possible - because when push comes to shove, no species of fly makes a good houseguest. Cluster flies are found in homes and other structures. Cluster flies often enter into homes and other buildings in the late fall in order to have a warm, safe shelter for the winter months. How to Get Rid of Cluster Flies Naturally. CALL NOW, "Protecting your family from unwanted pests in Western Massachusetts & Connecticut!". Listed below are some easy steps that you can take around your home now to try and prevent cluster flies from entering. The answer is no, they are actually much less of a health hazard to people than the common house fly. Cluster Flies are noticeably larger than Houseflies – 8-10 mm in length compared to house flies that are about 6-7 mm long. This is why you may notice flies trapped between your window and an increase that seems out of the blue. Phone: (920) 731-2640. In the case of an infestation, you may find smudges of cluster fly waste on your windows or walls, which is harmless but unsightly. These flies will produce a sickening smell as they linger in an area, particularly as they deposit fecal matter. This guide will break down the dangers these flying insects can pose. Are cluster flies dangerous? However, the presence of cluster flies inside a structure can create health and liability concerns, especially in sensitive locations, such as hospitals, food processing and handling facilities. Fill in the spaces found around utility entrances. Since they are a fairly common pest, we want to provide you with some helpful information about them, including whether or not they are simply a nuisance or if they are actually a dangerous pest to have in your home. This causes cluster flies to keep coming back just when you think you may have gotten rid of … Cluster flies are a species that commonly invade homes. Unlike other insects, they will not lay eggs in food or cause extensive damage to homes. However, unlike some of their other fly relatives, cluster flies do not carry dangerous diseases and they do not bite humans or animals. West and south facing buildings, with large, open lawns, exposed to more sunlight, are especially attractive to cluster flies. Cluster flies are one of many types of flies that can be found in and around the home. The best cluster flies prevention tip is to make sure your home is fully sealed off next fall. Chippewa Falls, WI 54729 There are numerous species of flies, and every one of them carries a potential health threat straight into your home. Cluster flies, or attic flies, are large black flies and similar in size, shape and behavior to the blowfly. Flies start moving into homes in fall when the weather cools off. Cluster flies aren’t dangerous directly to humans, but they can spread bacteria via food contamination. The Cluster Fly Life Cycle They pick up any pathogens that are present in these areas and then can transfer them to wherever they land – whether it is the surfaces … Make sure that other openings to the home are closed or screened off including utility openings, windows and doors. You should apply caulk to cracks and crevices along the foundation, windows and doors. Cluster flies move in a lethargic manner and often enter homes and other structures in the fall and “cluster” together in large groups behind walls, in crawl spaces, and in attics where they will hibernate during the winter months. Phone: (715) 835-3052, W 140 N5910 Lilly Road Cluster flies are very slow moving and often appear confused compared to the energetic movements of a common housefly. Instead, they lay their eggs inside earthworms. In reality, they are a separate species known as cluster flies. Privacy Policy  |  Site Map   |  Accessibility Statement, American Pest Solutions 1260 Suffield St Agawam, MA 01001 (413) 781-0044, American Pest SolutionsHartford, CT 06114 (860) 745-0123, American Pest Solutions received an average rating of 4.9 out of 5 stars from 170 reviews. Once cluster flies come inside, the best treatment is removal, so vacuum them out of your windowsills and light fixtures and get back to enjoying your spring. But cluster flies, house flies and stable flies (among others) are known for spreading at least 200 known pathogens and parasites to humans; so the answer is yes – flies are dangerous! So while cluster flies are dangerous to earthworms, they really aren’t considered to be harmful to humans. Cluster flies don’t breed or nest in buildings, but they may appear indoors during the colder months. You might also wonder, what kind of fly is this? Cluster flies (8 – 10 mm) are larger in size than a house fly (6 – 7 mm) but smaller than a bottle fly (10 – 14 mm). House flies can be a serious problem when they get inside our Pittsburgh area homes through cracks, holes, or openings around the house. Are cluster flies dangerous? Some people may believe that cluster flies can be as dangerous as house flies. Make sure that screen windows and doors are completely intact. Are cluster flies dangerous? Some people may believe that cluster flies can be as dangerous as house flies. Cluster Flies are clumsy fliers – it’s like they’re drunk. Cluster flies are not considered to be dangerous; they don’t sting or bite and are basically considered to be only a nuisance pest. All Rights Reserved. By completing this form and submitting your information, you confirm that you have reviewed, understood and accepted our privacy and cookie policies. Give American Pest Solutions a call as soon as possible to learn more about our residential pest control services! These are likely cluster flies. Still, they can “cluster”, as their name suggests, in very large numbers inside your home. Home › Blog › Are Cluster Flies Dangerous? For businesses this can cause a real problem as they will almost certainly put off customers in your business. Considered to be a nuisance pest, these insects don’t carry any diseases. However, the presence of cluster flies inside a structure can create health and liability concerns, especially in sensitive locations, such as hospitals, food processing and handling facilities. Although not exactly the meanest or most dangerous flying insect we’ve encountered, cluster flies can be a serious nuisance if left to their own devices. They tend to enter in large numbers and, once inside, are difficult to eliminate. While most flies can spread bacteria, diseases, and create unsanitary conditions, cluster flies are not quite as dangerous. Why am I finding so many flies in my house? Larger and slower than house flies cluster flies can be a nuisance around homes, often getting inside and laying eggs. Cluster flies are very slow moving and often appear confused compared to the energetic movements of a common housefly. With that being said, if cluster flies do find their way into your home, it is best to eliminate them as quickly as possible - because when push comes to shove, no species of fly makes a good houseguest. No. Are Cluster Flies Dangerous? Cluster flies, also known as attic flies, are usually outdoor flies but they are sensitive to the cold weather. Another great indicator that you have cluster flies in your house is their behavior. There’s also no risk of these pests laying eggs in your home and causing an infestation. Cluster flies may emerge from their hiding spots on warm sunny days and will gathering around windows, door frames, and sky lights. There’s also no risk of these pests laying … A lot of homeowners use a vacuum cleaner to remove cluster flies. Most people just think of these flies as a common housefly. Why do I have a cluster fly problem? If you notice flies have become an increasing problem in your home, contact Wil-Kil Pest Control. These flies typically live outdoors; these pests only enter inside during the fall in order to have a safe place to overwinter. Cluster flies are mainly considered to be nuisance pests; they don’t bite or sting, and aren’t known to spread diseases like filth flies. Phone: (414) 438-8420, 1828 East Wisconsin Ave. However, unlike other species of fly, cluster flies are not very dangerous since they are not disease carriers, and don’t cause damage to homes. The only problem with these flies is that they are irritating but that’s about it. Cluster flies may be annoying and very common household pests, but the good news is that they are harmless to people and pets. .st0{fill:#3587DC;} Well, here’s the scenario, suddenly as it starts to warm up outside, you notice a lot of flies around your home – almost like they appeared out of thin air. These flies frequent trash cans, decaying flesh, rotting food and manure. Published by website-admin on 06/09/2020. After the larvae hatch from their egg, they feed on the earthworm. Cluster flies aren’t harmful, but they can be a nuisance. When spring arrives, the flies start waking up again and try to get back outside. They are very slow moving so it is not hard to vacuum or even sweep them out of your home. Appleton, WI 54911 But before the burning question of whether cluster flies are dangerous or not is answered, let’s talk a bit about this species of fly and their unique characteristics. Are cluster flies dangerous? They make irritating, buzzing noises, spin around and move sluggishly. Cluster Flies. They may emerge confused on a warm sunny day and gather on window sills and in window corners, but once spring comes back around they will move around your home, buzzing loudly around your head trying to make their way back outside. They are characterized by their distinct stripes behind the head and golden hairs on the thorax. After a long, cold winter, the warmer temperatures of spring naturally bring out insects and wildlife. If cluster flies do manage to sneak their way into your home, the best solution is to contact the pest control professionals at American Pest Solutions. While they don’t reproduce inside of structures, they exist purely as an annoyance. Compared to other species of flies, cluster flies are mainly nuisance pests. They are not known to bite people or pets. Cluster flies don’t lay eggs in food like houseflies, making them less directly dangerous. No one wants a fly infestation, even if those flies are harmless. Cluster flies are a bit darker and have dark and light chequered pattern on their abdomen which house flies or bottle flies do not have. Are cluster flies dangerous? This is the season when the battle between you and the bugs begins again. If these flies are accidentally squished they may leave behind an unpleasant odor and grease spot. We know they didn’t just appear, so where do all these flies come from? Menomonee Falls, WI 53051 So get rid of them quickly! They look for warm places where they can hibernate. There are many different species of flies found invading homes, and while each species has its own unique characteristics, they generally have one thing in common. Now back to the original question. Cluster flies don’t breed in your home or lay eggs so they will simply die in your home if they cannot find a way out. They will transfer germs from anything they land on, but they will not actively seek unhygienic surfaces. Are Cluster Flies Dangerous? Cluster Flies in Your Home. Cluster flies do not lay their eggs on our food; instead, they lay their eggs inside earthworms. Houseflies in particular can bring a host of different bacteria into your home and onto your food. Categories . Seal cracks and crevices found in the foundation. Cluster flies do not bite humans or animals and are not known to carry any diseases. If cluster flies make their way into your home, leave the fly control up to us. ARE CLUSTER FLIES DANGEROUS? Cluster flies don’t bite people and they do not lay their eggs on our food. They also do not spread as much bacteria as other flies because they do not lay their eggs in human food but rather near earthworm burrows. Our professionals have experience treating cluster fly infestations and will be able to inspect your home and develop a treatment plan to quickly get rid of the infestation. So while cluster flies are dangerous to earthworms, they really aren’t considered to be harmful to humans. August 27, 2019; Earlier this month we talked about the various types of flies that are active in and around our homes and businesses. This might be all you need unless you have a major problem. While cluster flies may seem dangerous, like horse flies they do not pose a major risk. These large flies sometimes called "attic flies," appear on warm, sunny days during late autumn, winter, and early spring. However, when you kill cluster flies, you need to be careful to clean up the corpses quickly or you could attract far more problematic critters. Cluster Flies   |   cluster fly prevention tips   |   home pest control in ma, For Immediate Assistance Call (888) 324-7025, © Copyright 2021 Lobster Marketing Group, LLC. Entry Entering living spaces by way of electrical outlets or baseboards, the pests take shelter in attics and walls to hibernate, awaiting the arrival of warmer spring weather. What are cluster flies? Cluster flies prefer warm areas, so homeowners often find them flying around houses on sunny days in the winter and late fall months. Their habits, like congregating in windows or inside light fixtures, make cluster flies more of a nuisance than anything inside your home. These flies won’t get into your food and contaminate it, so you don’t have to worry about them invading your pantry or cupboards as house flies do. If they gather in significant numbers they can be unsightly in your home. Length compared to other species of flies this spring sky lights the best cluster flies do bite... 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