Cluster Fly (pollenia rudis)

 

Adult size (approx.): 0.6cm

 

Cluster Flies - are also known as ‘Attic Flies’ occupying loft space and wall cavities. If in doubt as to whether you have cluster flies, their numbers give them away, they usually are in their hundreds and thousands returning annually! To successfully remove Cluster Flies, a one-off visit is required.

 

Essex & Herts Pest Control use the latest pesticide.

Habitat

Adults live harmlessly outdoors in the Summer months but may enter buildings in autumn to hibernate, sometimes in vast numbers. They enter via windows, doors but mainly hibernate in loft spaces.

Biology

Egg-Larva-Pupa-Adult
Egg: laid in damp soil or vegetation. They hatch in approx a week.
Larva: soon after emerging they seek out and parasitise earthworms, which are eventually killed. Develop in several weeks.
Pupa: in soil.
Adult: black in colour with fine gold hairs on thorax, approx 6mm in length. Often 2 generations per year.

Importance

During Summer and early Autumn they are of no consequence. As the season cools they seek shelter in and around buildings. As the temperature drops, they search for more protection, consequently forming clusters normally in loft spaces. Large amounts of Flies can produce a sickly smell and if warmed-up can awake them during hibernation and create some consternation among those using the building.

Control

Proofing can be undertaken which will prevent entry but can be difficult in areas such as underneath roof tiles etc. Caulking can take place around doors and windows and any other small entry holes. A residual spray can be used if there are not many Flies. Smoke bombs can also be used.