How to Get Rid of Spiders
July 19, 2022
San Diego: Vector Sector
October 3, 2022
On the West Coast, some of the hottest months of the year are yet to come. September and October bring heat waves in Southern California, and with it, comes pesky flies.
Why are flies a problem in the hotter months?
Insects in general tend to be cold blooded. When temperatures rise, insects are typically more active because they are able to leave whatever spaces are providing them with heat. Flies, in particular, are much more active in the summer. Because of the rise in activity, the summer also serves as a peak time in reproduction for flies.
What kind of flies can I expect to find in my home?
Flies come in all shapes and sizes, and in California, we have no shortage of species. Common house flies can be a problem year-round, but you may also find a horse fly, fruit fly, gnat, or even some cluster flies before the summer comes to an end.
A house fly is fairly common, and their lifespan is quite short. While they are mostly harmless, they can spread food poisoning by infecting common household surfaces that food is prepared on.
Another common fly in the summertime is a horse fly. Fortunately, if you find one in your house, you can bet it will find its own way out. If a horse fly is inside, it likely made its way in by accident. These flies feed outdoors, and don’t plan to invade your space.
A fruit fly is often compared to or used synonymously with a gnat, but there is a subtle difference. Fruit flies are often found in your kitchen because their diet consists of fermented or fresh food. They love fruits and other produce, beer, and wine. Gnats, on the other hand, have a wider range for their diet, so they may be found in other spots in your home. Gnats might feed on produce, but they can also eat mold and plant leaves or soil.
Cluster flies do not pose any threats to humans, but because they are often in large groups, when they die they leave behind a lot of bodies that can stain areas in your home and cause unpleasant odors.
How can I prevent flies?
Preventing flies can be simple. Basic methods include keeping your countertops and floors clean. Flies lay eggs on wet spots on your counter or on food, so keeping your counters dry and disinfected can help keep them from breeding in your home. Covering your trash cans with lids is also crucial to protecting your home from flies.
One major factor that is overlooked is the outside of your home. If the outside of your home has attracted flies, it is likely that they will work to find their inside, as well. Keeping your garbage bins clean, food contained, and being generally tidy with the outside of your home can be an incredible resource for keeping flies at bay in the summer.
If you are suffering from summertime pests, give Mission Pest Control a call. At Mission Pest Control, we know just how annoying it can be to have to share your home with unexpected visitors. By calling us, you can book a pest inspection for your home so that we can help you determine the kind of pest control services you need this summer. At Mission Pest Control, protecting your home is our top priority!
