Lesser house flies can be a persistent nuisance, buzzing around your home and potentially contaminating food and surfaces. If you’re dealing with these pesky insects and wondering how to get rid of lesser house flies effectively, you’ve come to the right place. This guide provides 15 proven methods to eliminate these flies and keep your home clean and fly-free.
Understanding Lesser House Flies
What Are Lesser House Flies?
Lesser house flies (Fannia canicularis) are smaller than common house flies but just as annoying. They are typically about 4 to 6 mm long and are attracted to decaying organic matter, garbage, and moist environments.
Why Lesser House Flies Invade Homes
These flies often enter homes seeking food, breeding sites, and shelter, especially during warmer months or when sanitation is poor.
Signs of Lesser House Fly Infestation
Physical Sightings and Behavior
You may notice small flies hovering around windows, kitchen areas, trash bins, or near pet waste. They often have a distinct, erratic flight pattern.
Common Breeding Sites
Lesser house flies lay eggs in moist organic material such as garbage, compost, animal feces, and decaying food.
Immediate Steps to Remove Lesser House Flies
Using Fly Swatters and Electric Zappers
Manual methods like fly swatters can be effective for small infestations. Electric zappers attract and kill flies using light.
Setting Up Fly Traps
Sticky traps, UV light traps, and baited fly traps can capture and reduce fly populations indoors.
Natural and Non-Toxic Fly Control Methods
Essential Oils and Herbal Repellents
Oils like citronella, eucalyptus, peppermint, and lavender repel flies naturally. Use diffusers or spray diluted oils around problem areas.
Homemade Fly Sprays and Traps
Mix water with vinegar, sugar, or dish soap to create homemade fly sprays or traps that lure and kill flies.
Maintaining Cleanliness to Reduce Attractants
Regularly clean trash bins, remove pet waste promptly, and avoid leaving food exposed to deter flies.
Chemical and Professional Fly Control Options
Insecticide Sprays and Foggers
Use insecticides labeled for fly control carefully, following safety guidelines to avoid risks to family and pets.
Hiring Pest Control Professionals
For severe infestations, professional pest control services provide targeted and effective treatments.
Preventing Future Lesser House Fly Infestations
Proper Waste Management
Keep garbage sealed and dispose of it regularly. Compost bins should be well-maintained and covered.
Sealing Entry Points and Repairing Screens
Fix gaps, cracks, and torn window or door screens to block fly entry.
FAQs About Lesser House Fly Removal
Are fewer house flies harmful?
While they don’t bite, lesser house flies can spread bacteria and contaminate food.
How fast do lesser house flies reproduce?
They reproduce quickly, with eggs hatching in 1-2 days and a life cycle of about 2-3 weeks.
Can natural repellents alone keep flies away?
They help, but are more effective when combined with cleanliness and physical barriers.
Are fly traps safe for pets and children?
Most traps are safe, but keep them out of reach to avoid accidental contact.
When should I call a pest professional?
If infestations persist despite DIY efforts or are widespread.
Can fewer house flies survive winter indoors?
They may survive in warm indoor environments, but typically do not reproduce in cold conditions.
Conclusion: Effective and Sustainable Lesser House Fly Control
Getting rid of lesser house flies requires a combination of immediate removal, preventive measures, and maintaining cleanliness. Using natural repellents, traps, and, when necessary, professional help ensures your home stays fly-free and healthy year-round.
