How to Stop Cluster Flies Taking Over Your Loft
Opening the loft hatch and finding dozens of slow-moving flies can be an unpleasant surprise. Cluster flies are more than just a minor annoyance. In large numbers they can create mess, unpleasant smells and a persistent buzzing that makes your loft space far from peaceful.
Here is everything you need to know about cluster flies, why they choose lofts, and how you can deal with them effectively.
What Are Cluster Flies?
Cluster flies are a type of fly from the genus Pollenia. They look a lot like houseflies but are usually slightly larger with a dark grey body and fine golden hairs. Unlike houseflies they are not drawn to food waste and they do not breed inside your home.
In summer they live outdoors and lay eggs in soil where their larvae parasitise earthworms. When the weather cools in autumn they look for warmth and shelter. A loft is the ideal spot as it is dark, quiet and protected from the cold.
Why Lofts Are So Attractive to Cluster Flies
Cluster flies gather in large groups and often return to the same building every year. Lofts are perfect for them because they are warm, safe and rarely disturbed.
Once inside they stay dormant during the colder months. They often go unnoticed until a warm winter day wakes them up and you find them gathering around loft windows or roof lights.
Signs of Cluster Flies in Your Loft
Cluster flies leave some distinctive clues, and once you know what to look for, they are easy to spot.
- Groups of flies around windows or roof timbers They often gather in large numbers near sources of light, especially around loft windows or roof felt.
- Slow, sluggish movement Unlike the quick, darting flight of houseflies, cluster flies move more lazily and seem easier to catch.
- Persistent buzzing sounds If you notice a low, droning buzz coming from the loft, it could be a sign of fly activity.
- Small dark specks of droppings These can appear on beams, sills, or stored items and are a telltale sign that flies have been present for some time.
While it is not unusual to find the occasional fly in your loft, seeing dozens, or even hundreds, of these sluggish flies in the same area is a clear indication of a cluster fly infestation.
Are Cluster Flies Harmful?
Cluster flies are not considered dangerous. They do not bite, and do not spread disease like houseflies. However, they can still cause problems, including:
- Mess from dead flies and droppings that can stain surfaces and stored items
- Bad smells, especially when many flies die in the loft space
- Repeated infestations every autumn if nothing is done
How to Deal with Cluster Flies
Cluster flies can be difficult to remove completely without the right approach, especially when they are inside wall voids or roof spaces.
- Vacuum or carefully remove visible flies to reduce numbers
- Seal gaps and cracks around eaves, vents and tiles to stop new flies entering
- Avoid squashing them as this can leave stains and attract other pests
- Call a professional pest controller for a safe and thorough treatment
A trained pest control technician can use the correct treatments to clear the loft and reduce the risk of the flies returning in future years.
Preventing Cluster Flies from Coming Back
After treatment, prevention is essential. Check your loft regularly, keep entry points sealed and consider using fine mesh on vents so that air can circulate but flies cannot get through.
Take Back Your Loft!
Cluster flies are not dangerous but they are unpleasant and they tend to return year after year. Avon Pest Control can help you clear them quickly and professionally so that you can enjoy a clean and quiet loft once again.
Contact our friendly team today and let us do the hard work for you!