Fly nuisance

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Last revised: 6 October 2008

A Picture of a Fly

Please follow this link to make an online enquiry, complaint or report, relating to this service - Fly nuisance

Summer 2006 - flies in Grafton & Collingbourne areas

Kennet DC is aware of the fly problems in the Grafton and Collingbourne area. While no source of flies has been definitely identified the Environmental Health and Protection Service is working to control possible human activities that may increase fly populations. Primarily this involves advising local farmers on the use and spreading of organic manures. All the local farmers have been cooperative with the department. There may be other natural sources of flies but by definition these are almost impossible to control. Unfortunately the recent hot weather has encouraged a boom in all insect populations.

It is NOT possible to control a widespread fly infestation once the flies are mature insects. Controls are only really effective when used at the source of the infestation at the larval stages.

Advice on controlling house fly numbers in domestic properties

If the fly nuisance occurs then it is best to exclude flies by keeping doors and windows shut or installing fly screens or curtains. Avoid the use of bright lights especially halogen lighting commonly found in modern kitchens. If possible keep curtains drawn in little used rooms such as bedrooms, this avoids encouraging flies to enter these rooms from corridors and passageways.

If you are using fly spray follow the instructions on the container carefully. Remember that these sprays can be harmful to human health especially when used in food preparation areas.

Lesser House Flies are NOT attracted to Ultra Violet electric fly traps.

The Council cannot provide any treatment for house flies. If you wish to purchase equipment or services to control flies in your own home then contractors can be found under Pest Control in the Yellow (External link) Pages.  Please note the Council cannot recommend a specific contractor for legal reasons.

As a resident you can help to minimise the fly population by taking a few simple precautions:

  • Ensure all food waste is wrapped in sealed plastic bags prior to placing in your black wheelie bin. Make sure that the lid of the bin is kept closed. Any food waste/liquid that gathers in the bottom of the bin should be cleaned out and/or disinfected.

  • If you own a dog ensure that you clear up any fouling immediately and put the waste into a litter bin in a sealed plastic bag. Dog foul bags are available free of charge from Kennet District Council offices and information points.

Lesser Housefly General Information

The Lesser House Fly is, as the name suggests, smaller then the Common House Fly but the two are often found together.  Neither is a welcome visitor but both are present in almost every UK property especially during the warmer months.  Most of the Lesser House Flies seen in domestic properties are males; they are attracted by calm wind conditions and bright light.  They tend to fly in short, jerky patterns around light fittings and spend less time on surfaces than the Common House Fly.

The life expectancy of a fly is 8 days to 2 months depending upon the weather. From the laying of eggs to an adult fly hatching takes 8 to 14 days dependent upon the conditions.

Contact us

If you have any queries or concerns not covered above then please contact:

Robert Draper: Acting Principal Environmental Health Officer 01380 724911

Andrew McMillan: Acting Principal Environmental Health Officer 01380 724911