Syngenta Professional Pest Management: Flies

By Dr. ElRay Roper, Senior Technical Representative

Flies are not only a nuisance to homeowners, but many are capable of transferring human, plant and animal diseases. To control these pests, pest management professionals (PMPs) should use an integrated pest management (IPM) program that uses the techniques of area inspection, species identification, sanitation and chemical methods to regulate population control. The following techniques can be implemented to create an efficient fly control program:

• Inspection and identification — Identifying the type of fly infestation is essential to effective management. The type of fly will determine the type of treatment you make. However, most flies can be controlled through both physical and chemical control methods. To ensure a thorough inspection, PMPs should search both the inside and outside of a structure for sources of an infestation, as well as any points of entry that may exist.

• Physical controls — Non-chemical controls are generally most useful in ridding an area of a fly infestation. Locating where breeding occurs and eliminating it will help control many species of small flies and biting flies. Sealing and caulking efforts will keep them from entering structures. Filth fly populations can be best managed through sanitation efforts, such as cleaning thoroughly on a regular basis, eliminating attractive odors, removing decaying fruits and vegetables and keeping waste in fly-proof containers. Non-chemical fly traps, like insect light traps (ILTs) and attractants coated with an adhesive, can also be useful options for trapping flies in low-visibility areas.

• Chemical controls — Areas infested with overwintering flies should be treated with a residual insecticide labeled for the species.

Remember, the breeding sites of most flies are rarely found indoors. If the source of a fly infestation is found within a structure, clean the harborage area, then dry it and seal it with a durable caulk. This will prevent organic debris from accumulating, which could attract flies to breed again in the future.

By using a combination of these methods, you can eliminate flies and provide peace of mind to your customers.