Cluster flies and houseflies are often mistaken for one another. Though they are similar in appearance, there are ways to tell these flies apart. Being able to correctly identify them will make it easier to eliminate an infestation. Check out how to tell the difference between cluster flies and houseflies.
What Do Cluster Flies Look Like?
Cluster flies are larger than houseflies, growing to about 3/8" in length. They are darker than houseflies and have small golden hairs on their thorax. A checkered pattern can be found on their abdomen. Cluster flies have translucent wings that overlap when they are resting. These flies move slowly, which can help differentiate them from other flies.
What Do Houseflies Look Like?
Houseflies range in size from 1/8"–1/4" in length. They have a gray body with black vertical stripes on their thorax. Some hair can be found on their body. These flies have two large red eyes. When resting, their translucent wings remain separate. Unlike cluster flies, houseflies move quickly.
What Attracts Cluster Flies?
In fall, cluster flies invade homes looking for warmth and shelter. They like to find an undisturbed place to overwinter, and they gravitate to attics and wall voids. Before heading indoors, they gather on the side of homes that receive the most sunlight. These flies release pheromones that will attract other cluster flies to the area. Cluster flies are also attracted to light and will hang out on windows or near light fixtures in homes.
What Attracts Houseflies?
Houseflies enter homes looking for sources of water and food. Crumbs, spills, and messy trash bins can attract them. Leaky pipes and excess moisture in your home can be attractive too. You’re likely to find houseflies in kitchens and bathrooms where food and moisture are present. These flies are most active in spring and summer when it’s warm. These flies won’t gather in groups like cluster flies, but multiple flies can infest your home at the same time.
How to Prevent Cluster Flies & Houseflies
Though these flies are different, similar prevention techniques can help to keep them away. Check out a few tips to help prevent these flies.
- Seal Entry Points: To keep cluster flies and houseflies out of your home, you need to seal entry points. Seal any cracks, gaps, or holes where pests could enter your house. Patch or replace torn screens. Avoid leaving your doors and windows open for long periods of time, especially if they don’t have screens on them.
- Remove Attractants: Remove potential food sources, like crumbs and spills, to avoid attracting houseflies. Take care of any plumbing issues to minimize excess moisture. Minimizing outdoor lighting can help to deter cluster flies.
- Spray Cluster Flies with a Hose: When cluster flies start gathering on your house, you can spray them with your garden hose. This will knock them off and discourage them from returning to your home.
- Create a Protective Barrier: Spraying the perimeter of your yard and home can help to prevent fly problems. Our Yard Bug Spray kills pests and has repellent properties. This residual repellency can create a barrier that helps to keep flies out. You can also spray common entry points with our Home Bug Spray to keep flies from stopping by.
How to Get Rid of Cluster Flies & Houseflies
Plant-based insecticide sprays are effective against cluster flies and houseflies. You can spot treat these flies with our Home Bug Spray or our Flying Insect Killer. Both products kill flies and provide residual repellency protection. You can also place a Garbage Refresh Deodorizer & Insect Control block in your trash can to help kill and repel houseflies. The block will help to deodorize your trash bin as well.
Whenever pests sneak into your home, it’s important to know what you’re up against. Though cluster flies and houseflies are similar, they do have differences in their appearance and behavior that can help you correctly identify them. If you’re dealing with flies, we have your back! Check out our Maggie’s Farm Simply Effective™ Pest Control products.