Cluster Flies Identification & Control Guide

cluster flies

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Move over, house flies. There’s a new fly in town, and this one is cluster-ing around by the hundreds. But what exactly are cluster flies, and why are they suddenly everywhere? 

Cluster flies are a type of fly that often invades homes in the fall and winter months. They get their name from their tendency to cluster together in large groups. While they may look similar to house flies, there are a few key differences. For one, they are larger, with a more rounded body. They also have longer wings and legs, giving them a more elegant appearance than their house fly cousins. 

In terms of behavior, cluster flies are much more sluggish than house flies and don’t sting or bite. However, they can be incredibly annoying, particularly when they gather in large numbers inside your home.

So where do these flies come from? In this blog post, we will discuss everything you need to know about these pesky pests and natural ways to get rid of them. Are you ready to learn about the mysterious world of these creatures? Let’s begin!

What are Cluster Flies and Where Do They Come From?

The big slow flies known as cluster or “attic” flies (Pollenia rudis and relatives) often infest homes in fall and turn into wintertime pests. They are especially apparent on warm winter days when they become active and find their way into residence quarters.

Cluster flies are typically larger than house flies and have a cluster-like appearance. They are not dangerous, but they can be a nuisance. These flies typically enter homes in the fall, when they are looking for a place to overwinter. They love hanging out near windows, where they congregate in large numbers. 

cluster flies

In the springtime, these flies emerge from hiding and mate outdoors. The female cluster fly then lays her eggs in soil that is rich in earthworms. The eggs hatch into maggots, which feed on earthworms for a few weeks before pupating into adult flies.

Cluster flies are not known to bite or transmit disease, but their presence can be annoying. They are known to disappear in the spring when they leave homes to mate and lay eggs. However, cluster fly infestations can occasionally occur in the summer months. If you have these flies in your home, contact a pest control professional to discuss your options and follow our steps that are designed to help you get rid of these creatures.

What Do Cluster Flies Look Like and How Can You Identify Them?


Cluster flies might look like any other ordinary house fly at first glance, but upon closer inspection, you’ll notice some key differences. They are slightly larger than your average house fly, and they have a golden hue on their abdomens. 

You can identify them easily because these flies tend to move more slowly than house flies. If you see a cluster of flies hanging around your windows in the late fall or early winter, chances are they’re cluster flies. They get their name from their habit of congregating in large groups, often near windows.  

How Do You Get Rid of Cluster Flies in Your Home or Yard?

So, how do you get rid of cluster flies? Unfortunately, there’s no silver bullet when it comes to getting rid of these flies. However, there are a few things you can do to help reduce their numbers. 

For starters, make sure to seal any cracks or openings around your home that these flies could use to get inside. You can also try using a fly trap to lure them in and then eliminate them. 

cluster flies

Finally, if you have cluster flies in your yard, make sure to keep the area clean and free of debris where they might congregate. If you have a serious infestation, you may need to call a professional pest control company to get rid of them for good. By taking these steps, you’ll be one step closer to ridding your home of these flies for good.

Natural Ways To Get Rid of Cluster Flies

If you’ve ever had the misfortune of dealing with cluster flies, you know that getting rid of them is no small task. While they don’t pose a health risk to humans, they can be a real nuisance. So, what’s the best way to get rid of cluster flies without resorting to harsh chemicals or pesticides?

There are actually a few natural ways to get rid of cluster flies. One method is to use a vacuum cleaner with an attachment that can reach into nooks and crannies. Another option is to place a bowl of soapy water near where the cluster flies are congregating. The soap will break the surface tension of the water and cause the insects to drown. 

You can also try hanging strips of flypaper near windows and doors. Whatever method you choose, be patient – it may take a few days or weeks to see results. But in the end, you’ll be glad you got rid of those pesky cluster flies for good!

Can Cluster Flies Be Prevented From Entering Your Home In The First Place?

If you see a cluster of flies near your home or business premises, don’t panic! These cluster flies are actually harmless and pose no threat to humans or animals. However, they can become a nuisance if they find their way into your house or office.

Unlike their smaller cousins, cluster flies are not attracted to garbage or other sources of food. Instead, they are drawn to light and warmth, which is why they often end up inside homes in the wintertime. While there are various ways to get rid of cluster flies once they’ve entered your home, the best way to deal with them is to prevent them from coming in in the first place. 

cluster flies

Sealing cracks and crevices around windows and doors are the best way to keep them out. And if you do find yourself with a cluster fly problem, there are a variety of extermination methods that can help get rid of them for good. We recommend investing in an ultrasonic fly repeller as a way to prevent these beings from entering your sacred space.

Final Thoughts: Cluster Flies

Cluster flies are a type of fly that cluster together in large numbers. They are similar to house flies but have a distinct difference in their appearance. Cluster flies are larger and have a golden hue to their body. They got their name from their habit of clustering together in large numbers. 

They are not known to carry any diseases but can become a nuisance if they enter your home in large numbers. These flies are attracted to light and often enter homes through open windows or doors. Unlike most other types of flies, cluster flies don’t breed indoors. Instead, they spend their summer months outside in fields and wooded areas. 

In the fall, they begin to migrate toward homes and other buildings in search of warm places to spend the winter. Once inside, they’ll cluster together in attics, crawl spaces, and other dark corners until spring arrives.

If you’re dealing with a cluster fly infestation, there’s no need to panic. While these pests can be a nuisance, they pose no threat to your health or property. However, if you want to get rid of them for good, you’ll need to take some proactive steps. Start by sealing up any cracks or openings around your home where cluster flies might be able to get inside. You can also use traps or insecticides to help reduce their numbers. 

If you have cluster flies in your home, you can also try to reduce their population by vacuuming them up or using a bowl with soapy water when they are hanging out. 

If you think you have cluster flies, there are a few things you can do to confirm your suspicions. First, take a close look at the fly. If it has a cluster-like pattern on its back, it is most likely a cluster fly. Second, check to see if the fly is attracted to light. Finally, try to identify where the fly came from. As we shared earlier, they typically enter homes through cracks and openings in the walls or foundation. 

If you suspect you have cluster flies, contact a pest control professional for help. With a little effort, you can make your home fly-free in no time, and taking these steps will help to keep your home pest-free all season long.