Washington’s rainy western side and dry eastern region create distinct fly populations, making it important to know the types of flies in Washington you might encounter. Whether you’re a homeowner, a hiker, or a business owner, understanding these pests helps you manage them better. This guide covers the most common species, where they live, and how to deal with them.
Flies are more than just a nuisance. They can spread diseases and contaminate food. In Washington, the climate varies a lot, so different flies thrive in different areas. Let’s break down what you need to know.
Types Of Flies In Washington
This section covers the main categories of flies you’ll find across the state. From the rainy coast to the dry interior, each region has its own set of common species.
House Flies
House flies are the most common type you’ll see. They are gray and about 1/4 inch long. They breed in garbage, manure, and decaying organic matter.
- They can carry over 100 pathogens.
- They are most active in summer.
- They enter homes through cracks and open doors.
To control them, keep trash cans sealed and clean up pet waste quickly. Screens on windows help alot.
Fruit Flies
Fruit flies are tiny, about 1/8 inch, with red eyes. They love ripe or rotting fruits and vegetables. You’ll often see them near kitchen counters or compost bins.
They breed fast. A single female can lay 500 eggs. The best way to get rid of them is to remove their food source. Store fruit in the fridge and take out trash regularly.
Blow Flies
Blow flies are metallic blue or green. They are larger than house flies. They are attracted to dead animals and rotting meat.
If you find them inside, there might be a dead rodent in your walls or attic. Check crawl spaces and vents. They can also indicate a problem with garbage disposal.
Drain Flies
Drain flies are small and fuzzy, like tiny moths. They breed in the slime inside drains. You’ll see them near sinks, showers, and floor drains.
To remove them, clean drains with a brush and enzyme cleaner. Pouring boiling water down the drain weekly helps prevent them.
Horse Flies
Horse flies are large, up to 1 inch. They have big eyes and clear wings. Females bite animals and humans to get blood.
They are most common near water sources like lakes and rivers. Their bite is painful. Wear long sleeves and use insect repellent if you’re in their habitat.
Deer Flies
Deer flies are smaller than horse flies, about 1/4 to 1/2 inch. They have dark bands on their wings. They also bite.
They are active in summer and prefer wooded areas. They are attracted to movement and carbon dioxide. Light-colored clothing can help reduce bites.
Cluster Flies
Cluster flies look like house flies but are slightly larger. They move slowly. They enter homes in fall to overwinter in attics and wall voids.
They don’t breed indoors. They come from earthworms outside. Seal cracks around windows and doors to keep them out. Vacuuming them is the easiest removal method.
Stable Flies
Stable flies look like house flies but have a pointed mouthpart. They bite livestock and humans. They breed in wet hay, straw, and manure.
They are common near farms and stables. Remove wet bedding and manure regularly. Fly traps can help reduce their numbers.
Regional Fly Populations In Washington
Washington’s geography creates two very different fly environments. The west side is wet and mild, while the east side is dry and hot. This affects which flies thrive.
Western Washington Flies
Western Washington includes Seattle, Tacoma, and the Olympic Peninsula. It gets a lot of rain. This creates ideal conditions for certain flies.
- Drain flies are very common due to constant moisture.
- Fruit flies thrive in kitchens and compost piles.
- Blow flies are attracted to damp garbage.
Mosquitoes are also a problem here, but they are not true flies. Still, they are often grouped with fly pests.
Eastern Washington Flies
Eastern Washington is dry and hot, with areas like Spokane and the Tri-Cities. Here, flies are more of a problem in summer.
- House flies are abundant near farms and ranches.
- Horse flies and deer flies are common near rivers and irrigation ditches.
- Stable flies bother livestock and people.
Dry conditions mean fewer drain flies, but more biting flies near water sources.
How To Identify Flies In Washington
Identifying the right fly helps you choose the best control method. Here’s a simple guide based on size, color, and behavior.
Size And Color
Measure the fly against common objects. A fruit fly is about the size of a sesame seed. A house fly is about the size of a grain of rice. Blow flies are larger and shiny.
Color is a big clue. Metallic green or blue means blow fly. Gray with stripes means house fly. Red eyes mean fruit fly.
Behavior
Watch where the fly hangs out. Near drains? It’s likely a drain fly. Near fruit? Fruit fly. Biting? Horse or deer fly. Slow moving in fall? Cluster fly.
Biting flies are the most dangerous. They can cause allergic reactions. If you’re bitten, clean the area and apply antiseptic.
Breeding Sites
Finding where they breed helps identify them. House flies breed in garbage. Blow flies in dead animals. Drain flies in drain slime. Cluster flies in earthworm burrows.
Check your property for these sites. Removing them is the best long-term solution.
Health Risks From Flies In Washington
Flies are not just annoying. They can make you sick. They carry bacteria, viruses, and parasites.
Diseases Spread By Flies
House flies can spread salmonella, E. coli, and dysentery. They pick up germs from garbage and transfer them to food.
- Blow flies can spread bacteria from dead animals.
- Biting flies can transmit diseases like tularemia.
- Fruit flies are less dangerous but can contaminate food.
Always wash fruits and vegetables before eating. Keep food covered.
Allergic Reactions
Some people are allergic to fly bites. Horse fly bites can cause swelling and itching. In rare cases, they can cause anaphylaxis.
If you have a severe reaction, seek medical help. Antihistamines can help with mild reactions.
Prevention And Control Methods
You can reduce fly populations around your home. Start with prevention, then use control methods if needed.
Sanitation
Cleanliness is the best defense. Flies need food and breeding sites. Remove these and they will leave.
- Take out trash daily.
- Clean up pet waste immediately.
- Store food in sealed containers.
- Fix leaky pipes to reduce moisture.
Compost bins should be covered and turned regularly. This reduces fruit fly breeding.
Physical Barriers
Screens on windows and doors keep flies out. Repair any holes. Use weather stripping on doors.
For biting flies, wear long pants and long sleeves. Use mosquito nets if camping near water.
Traps And Baits
There are many traps available. Sticky traps work for house flies. Fruit fly traps use vinegar or wine. Light traps attract and kill flies.
Place traps away from living areas. They attract flies, so you don’t want them near your kitchen.
Chemical Controls
Insecticides can kill flies quickly. Use them sparingly. Focus on breeding sites like garbage cans.
Always follow label instructions. Avoid spraying near food or pets. Consider natural options first.
Seasonal Fly Activity In Washington
Fly activity changes with the seasons. Knowing when to expect them helps you prepare.
Spring
As temperatures rise, flies become active. Cluster flies leave overwintering sites. House flies start breeding.
Check screens and seals early. Clean up winter debris in yards.
Summer
Summer is peak fly season. Biting flies are most active. House flies and fruit flies multiply fast.
Keep doors closed. Use fans to create airflow, which deters flies. Set up traps early.
Fall
Cluster flies start looking for winter shelter. They enter homes through small cracks. Other flies slow down as it gets cooler.
Seal gaps around windows and doors. Vacuum cluster flies if they get inside.
Winter
Most flies die off or become inactive. Cluster flies remain in attics. Drain flies can survive in warm drains.
Keep drains clean. Check for dead flies in light fixtures.
Professional Pest Control Options
Sometimes DIY methods aren’t enough. Professional pest control can help with severe infestations.
When To Call A Pro
Call a professional if you have:
- Large numbers of biting flies.
- Flies that keep coming back.
- Infestations in walls or attics.
- Health concerns from fly-borne diseases.
Professionals can identify the exact species and treat breeding sites.
What To Expect
A pest control technician will inspect your property. They will look for breeding sites and entry points. They may use sprays, baits, or foggers.
They will also give advice on prevention. Follow their recommendations to keep flies away long-term.
Common Fly Myths
There are many myths about flies. Let’s clear up a few.
Myth: Flies Only Live For 24 Hours
This is false. House flies can live for 15 to 30 days. Fruit flies live about 40 days. They have plenty of time to breed.
Myth: Flies Don’t Bite In The City
Biting flies can be found in urban areas too. Horse flies are common near parks with water. Deer flies can be in wooded suburbs.
Myth: Fly Swatters Are Useless
Fly swatters work well for a few flies. They are cheap and effective. Just clean up the mess afterward.
Faq About Flies In Washington
What Are The Most Common Types Of Flies In Washington?
The most common are house flies, fruit flies, drain flies, blow flies, and cluster flies. Biting flies like horse and deer flies are also common in rural areas.
How Do I Get Rid Of Fruit Flies In My Kitchen?
Remove all ripe fruit. Clean counters and drains. Make a trap with apple cider vinegar and dish soap in a bowl. Cover with plastic wrap and poke holes.
Are Flies In Washington Dangerous?
Yes, some flies can spread diseases. House flies carry bacteria. Biting flies can cause allergic reactions. Always practice good hygiene.
Why Do I See Flies In My House During Winter?
You likely have cluster flies. They enter homes in fall to overwinter. They become active on warm winter days and may appear near windows.
What Attracts Flies To My Yard?
Flies are attracted to garbage, pet waste, compost, and standing water. Dead animals and rotting plants also attract them. Keep your yard clean to reduce flies.
Final Thoughts On Fly Management
Knowing the types of flies in Washington helps you take action. Start with prevention. Keep your home and yard clean. Use barriers and traps as needed.
If you have a serious problem, don’t hesitate to call a pro. Flies are more than a nuisance. They can affect your health and comfort. Stay proactive and enjoy your summer without the buzz.
Remember, different flies need different solutions. Identify them first, then choose the right method. With a little effort, you can keep your space fly-free.