Fall is in the air in Illinois. From pumpkin-flavored everything to cooler weather, most of the country embraces the change from sweltering heat to crisp days and nights. And there’s a delightful bonus, or so we thought – no more flies. Unfortunately, that’s just not the case. Although we may not notice them as much outside, our local pest control experts describe two types of these pesky insects that are likely to seek shelter inside homes and businesses during autumn.
The Cluster Fly
This type of fly gathers in groups on warm exterior walls. They move upward and often end up unintentionally inside homes. This happens as they flock toward vents or into gaps and cracks around windows, doors, and fascia boards. Although they don’t pose a threat to building structures, they do bring their fair share of salmonella, E. coli, and other bacteria that can make us sick.
The Fruit Fly
The fruit fly heads straight for the garden bounty of late summer and early fall. With so many tomatoes, melons, and other fruits and veggies filling our kitchens, it’s easy to overlook produce that’s past its prime. While most of these gnat-like insects are more annoying than harmful, the Mediterranean fruit fly may spread food-borne bacteria.
How to Get Rid of Flies
Prevention is the best tactic here, because these buzzy bugs can be hard to get rid once they’ve invaded your home. To ward off a cluster fly infestation, cover trash cans with tight-fitting lids. Seal crevices and other potential entry points, especially on walls facing the south and west. Prevent fruit fly infestations by eating, refrigerating, or tossing produce before it reaches the overripe stage. Also, check the back areas of your pantry and cabinets to avoid drawing fruit fly swarms to forgotten onions or potatoes.
There may be worse bugs out there, but flies rank among the most irritating insects on earth. Whether you have a fruit fly problem or experience clusters of their bigger counterparts in your house, you’re probably anxious to eliminate the fly population that’s taken over your home or business. Keep your Illinois property fly-free by following our tips. If an infestation has already started, call in a team of local pest control pros so you can focus on enjoying fall fun.
