Flies are a prevalent household nuisance in New Zealand, especially during warmer seasons. Whilst they may seem a minor bother, these insects can spread diseases, contaminate food, and create unsanitary conditions. This blog explores the common fly species found in New Zealand, the challenges they present, and effective strategies to maintain a fly-free home.
House flies are amongst the most common species in New Zealand. These small, greyish-black insects are notorious for spreading bacteria and diseases, as they feed on decaying organic matter and human food. They often enter homes through open doors and windows, quickly becoming a nuisance.
Blow flies, larger than house flies, have a metallic blue or green body. Typically found around decaying meat and dead animals, they play a role in decomposition. However, they can spread harmful bacteria if they come into contact with food or surfaces in your home.
Fruit flies are small, tan or brown insects commonly found around overripe or rotting fruit and vegetables. They can multiply rapidly in homes, especially in kitchens where fresh produce is left out. Whilst not harmful, their presence can be unpleasant and unsanitary.
Cluster flies, larger than house flies, tend to invade homes in large numbers seeking warmth during colder months. Often found in attics, wall cavities, and around windows, they don't pose a direct health risk but can be annoying and difficult to manage.
Also known as moth flies, drain flies are small, fuzzy insects that breed in damp, organic matter in drains, sewers, and septic systems. Often seen around sinks, bathrooms, and kitchens, their presence indicates unsanitary conditions, although they don't spread disease.
Whilst some flies may seem harmless, they can present several risks to your home and health.
If you're wondering how to get rid of flies in NZ, understanding these common species and their potential risks is the first step towards effective prevention and control.
Health and Hygiene Concerns
Flies pose significant risks to our health and home cleanliness. They can transmit harmful microorganisms by contaminating food, surfaces, and utensils. Diseases like Salmonella, E. coli, and dysentery may spread when flies land on food or kitchen surfaces. As flies feed on decaying matter and human food, regurgitating enzymes during the process, they can introduce dangerous pathogens into our meals. Moreover, the presence of flies often signals unsanitary conditions, such as rotting organic matter, unclean drains, or improperly stored food. If left unchecked, fly infestations can quickly escalate.
Effective Fly Prevention Strategies
Keeping flies at bay in your New Zealand home involves a combination of good hygiene practices, eliminating breeding sites, and using natural or chemical deterrents. Here are some practical tips to maintain a fly-free environment:
Maintain a Clean Home
Flies are drawn to food scraps, spills, and organic waste. Keep your kitchen and dining areas clean by wiping down surfaces, sweeping floors, and promptly cleaning up food spills. Regularly empty rubbish bins and use sealed bin bags to prevent flies from accessing waste.
Protect Food and Drinks
Exposed food and drinks are an open invitation for flies. Use lids, food covers, or cling film to protect food and drinks, both inside and outside the house, especially during warmer months when flies are more active.
Secure Entry Points
Flies can easily enter your home through open doors, windows, and small cracks. Install fine mesh screens on windows and doors to prevent flies from entering. Ensure that doors and windows are properly sealed to block access points.
Remove Breeding Sites
Flies breed in moist, decaying organic matter such as compost, rubbish, and animal waste. Regularly clean out compost bins, pet areas, and drains to remove potential breeding sites. Ensure that rubbish bins are tightly sealed and located away from your living space.
Utilise Natural Fly Deterrents
Certain herbs and essential oils, such as basil, lavender, and eucalyptus, are known to repel flies. Plant these herbs in your garden or place them in pots around your home to deter flies. You can also mix essential oils with water and spray them around doors, windows, and surfaces to keep flies away.
Deploy Fly Traps or Zappers
Fly traps or electric fly zappers are effective tools for reducing the number of flies inside and outside your home. You can purchase commercial fly traps or make your own using sugar water or vinegar. Place these traps in areas where flies are most active, such as near windows or outdoor dining areas.
Maintain Clean Drains
Regularly clean and maintain your drains to prevent the accumulation of organic matter that attracts flies. Use a mixture of baking soda and vinegar followed by hot water to keep drains clean and odour-free.
By implementing these strategies, you can significantly reduce fly populations in and around your New Zealand home, ensuring a cleaner, healthier living environment for you and your family.
For drain flies, maintaining clean sinks and drains free from organic buildup is crucial. Use a drain cleaner or a baking soda and vinegar mixture to remove sludge and prevent breeding.
For persistent fly issues, seeking expert assistance may be necessary. Pest control services in New Zealand, like Southern Pest Control, offer targeted solutions to eliminate fly populations and prevent future infestations. These professionals provide long-term remedies by identifying the problem's source and applying safe, effective treatments.
Flies are a common nuisance in New Zealand, particularly during warmer months. By understanding common fly types, their breeding habits, and effective prevention strategies, you can minimise infestation risks and maintain a hygienic home.
Good hygiene practices, sealing entry points, and using natural or chemical deterrents are effective ways to keep flies at bay. However, if flies become a persistent problem, don't hesitate to contact a professional pest control service. They can address the issue and protect your home from contamination and disease, ensuring a fly-free environment for you and your family.