Where Do Flies Go in Winter?

As winter approaches, many of us notice a significant decrease in the presence of flies. These pesky insects, which are so prevalent in warmer months, seem to vanish as the temperatures drop. So, where do flies go in winter?

Let’s explore the fascinating survival strategies of flies during the colder months.

Understanding Fly Behaviour in Winter

 Flies are cold-blooded insects, meaning their body temperature is regulated by their environment. As temperatures decline, flies become lethargic and eventually seek out warmer locations to survive. Here’s a closer look at what happens to flies in winter:

Seeking Shelter Indoors

One of the most common places flies go during winter is inside homes and buildings. They are attracted to the warmth and will often find their way into attics, basements, and other less-disturbed areas. Once inside, they can remain relatively inactive until warmer weather returns.

Hibernation

Certain species of flies enter a state known as diapause, a type of hibernation that allows them to survive the cold months. During diapause, flies reduce their metabolic activity and become dormant. They find sheltered spots such as under bark, inside crevices, or within leaf litter to ride out the winter.

Lifecycle Completion

Some flies, particularly house flies, complete their lifecycle before winter sets in. They lay eggs in late autumn, and the adults die off as temperatures drop. The eggs or larvae then overwinter in protected environments, emerging as adults when spring arrives.

The Role of Indoor Conditions

 While many flies do not survive the harsh outdoor conditions of winter, indoor environments provide a more stable climate for survival. Here’s how indoor conditions affect flies:

Warmth: Heated homes and buildings provide the necessary warmth for flies to remain active or semi-active during winter.

Food Sources: Indoor environments often have ample food sources, such as garbage, pet food, and decaying organic matter, which can sustain flies through the winter.

Light: Artificial lighting can attract flies and disrupt their natural behaviour, leading them to stay active indoors longer than they would outdoors.

 Preventing Indoor Fly Infestations in Winter

 To prevent flies from becoming a nuisance in your home during winter, consider these tips:

Seal Entry Points: Ensure that windows, doors, and any cracks or crevices are properly sealed to prevent flies from entering.

Maintain Cleanliness: Keep your home clean and free of food waste, which can attract flies. Regularly take out the trash and clean up spills immediately.

Use Fly Traps: Set up fly traps in areas where flies are likely to gather, such as near windows or in the kitchen.  It is to be noted that if you use a fly bag trap, it is advised to place them away from your building or home to attract flies to the traps away from the building.  This also helps alleviate their pungent odours.  Flick Pest Services have a range of aerosol space spray dispensers and electronic fly unit that are safe for indoor use.

Professional Pest Control: For persistent fly problems, consider contacting a professional pest control service to address the issue effectively.

Conclusion:

Flies have adapted various strategies to survive the winter months, from seeking indoor shelter to entering a dormant state. Understanding where flies go in winter and how they survive can help you take proactive steps to keep your home fly-free during the colder months.

For comprehensive pest control solutions, trust Flick Pest Control to keep your home protected all year round.

Remember “One Flick and They’re Gone”

Give us a ring on 087 056 1021, drop us an email at enquiries@flickpest.co.za or drop us a comment on our blog or social media platforms.