Pests are irritating, unsightly and insanitary – which is why finding an infestation is worrying – and finding cluster flies is no exception.

Eraserpest have the knowledge to find a solution and effectively control flies so you know you can trust us to deal with any size of fly infestation.

Cluster Flies (Pollena Rudis)

What are Cluster Flies?

  • Also be known as grass flies or attic flies
  • Approximately 6-10mm long
  • Short golden coloured hairs on their thorax as well as stripes behind the head
  • Typically, slow moving
  • As the name suggests large numbers of the fly’s cluster, usually around windows and in attics or lofts attempting to stay warm and hibernate for the winter
  • They lay their eggs near the earthworm’s burrows and once hatched the larvae then feed on the worms

Cluster Fly larvae develop inside earthworms living in the ground outside of homes. The larvae develop into cocoons before hatching into adult flies. The adult flies are attracted to the sunny side of homes in the fall, looking for ways to get inside before winter.

How do cluster flies get into your home?

Cluster flies commonly make their way into the home through open doors and windows but can also enter through loose electrical outlets, openings around cables, pipes and through vents.

Once indoors, cluster flies can be found under clothing in closets, under curtains, behind pictures and furniture, etc. Cluster flies also may leave their hiding places and appear on sunny warm days during winter buzzing and “clustering” at windows.

How to identify cluster flies

Cluster flies typically return year after year, unless eaves and other entry ways are adequately sealed.

An obvious sign is to see a large quantity of dead flies. It’s also very common to find them in your loft, in sunken spot lighting or under insulating felt layers.

How long do cluster flies stay?

Throughout Autumn, you will find these in large congregations hibernating in attics, sheds and garages but as soon as spring comes around, they will make their way back outside.

Cluster flies

How to get rid of cluster flies?

A key measure to get ride of and prevent a cluster fly infestation is through cleaning. Cleaning will remove potential areas for flies to lay eggs, as they can reproduce very quickly.

There are a number of ways to deal with them, below is a list of different methods, remember if you’re not sure or do need assistant, consult a professional;

  • Insect spray
  • Vacuum
  • Sealing all openings around doors and windows
  • Foggers (performed by a trained professional)
  • Smoke bombs (performed by a trained professional)
  • Electric fly killers
  • Fly boxes

The faster you get rid of flies the better. If you tried these methods and still have a problem, then give us a call. We will be more than happy to advise you through the process. We provide fly treatments in houses, businesses, and the agricultural sector.

Our fly pest control treatment follows a 5-step programme with a 6th as an optional extra.

  • Carry out a professional survey to work out what fly species you have and the level of infestation
  • Advise you on any good housekeeping measures to keep flies away
  • Advise on proofing measures to stop the flies gaining access and carry out the necessary work
  • Use the most effective treatments to control the flies
  • Monitor by keeping in contact with you and or further inspections to ensure the fly population does not come back
  • Using our specialist machinery, we can mist either:
    • A biocide effective against bacteria and viruses through anywhere that contamination could pose a risk to you
    • A highly effective odour control product which will get rid of any smells the flies or maggots may have left

How much does fly pest control cost?

For a quote on fly pest control, do not hesitate to contact us via email at contact@eraserpest.com or call us on 07572 458216.