Horse flies are large, aggressive biting flies that can be a real nuisance, especially when they invade your home. Their painful bites and persistent buzzing can make it difficult to enjoy the comfort of your own space. This comprehensive guide will help you identify horse flies, understand why they're attracted to your house, and learn effective methods for prevention and control.
What are Horse Flies?
Horse flies (Tabanidae) are a family of large flies, typically 1/2 to 1 inch long, known for their robust bodies and powerful flight. They're easily distinguishable from other flies due to their size and their broad, somewhat flattened heads. Their eyes are often strikingly iridescent, with varying patterns depending on the species. Female horse flies are the ones that bite, needing a blood meal to produce eggs. Males feed on nectar and other plant juices.
Why are Horse Flies in My House?
Several factors can attract horse flies to your home. Understanding these factors is crucial for effective prevention.
1. Access Points: Open windows, doors, and gaps in your screens provide easy entry points for horse flies. Even small cracks can be sufficient.
2. Light Attraction: Horse flies, like many insects, are attracted to light, especially at night. Bright lights inside your house can lure them in.
3. Breeding Grounds Nearby: Horse flies breed in moist environments, such as stagnant water, marshes, and swampy areas. If these breeding grounds are near your property, you're more likely to experience infestations.
4. Livestock or Pets: If you have horses, cattle, or other livestock nearby, horse flies will be drawn to them for blood meals. Even pets can attract these biting pests.
5. Dark Colors: Some research suggests that horse flies are more attracted to dark colors. This might explain why they sometimes seem to target specific individuals or areas within the home.
How to Get Rid of Horse Flies in My House?
Once horse flies have invaded your home, you need to take swift action to eliminate them and prevent future infestations.
1. Physical Removal: The simplest method is to swat or vacuum them up. However, this is only effective for small infestations.
2. Insecticides: Using appropriate insecticides can be effective. Always follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully and prioritize the safety of your family and pets. Consider using a residual spray in areas where horse flies are frequently observed.
3. Fly Traps: Sticky traps or electric fly swatters can help catch and kill horse flies. These are particularly useful in areas with consistent infestations.
How to Prevent Horse Flies from Entering Your House?
Prevention is key to keeping horse flies out of your home. Proactive measures can significantly reduce the risk of infestation.
1. Screen Repair: Ensure all windows and doors have intact screens, repairing or replacing any damaged ones. Pay close attention to even small gaps or tears.
2. Light Management: Reduce the amount of light attracting insects at night. Use yellow or amber-colored bulbs instead of white light. Consider keeping lights off when not needed.
3. Eliminate Breeding Grounds: If possible, remove or treat any stagnant water or moist areas near your property that could be serving as breeding grounds for horse flies.
4. Landscaping: Keeping grass short and eliminating tall weeds can reduce suitable resting places for horse flies near your house.
What Attracts Horse Flies to Humans?
While the exact reasons are still being studied, factors like carbon dioxide in breath, movement, and body heat are believed to play a role in attracting horse flies to humans. Dark clothing may also contribute.
Are Horse Flies Dangerous?
While generally not considered dangerous, horse flies' bites can be painful and irritating. In some cases, bites can cause allergic reactions or transmit diseases, though this is rare.
How Long Do Horse Flies Live?
The lifespan of a horse fly varies depending on the species and environmental conditions, but generally ranges from a few weeks to a few months.
By implementing the prevention and control measures outlined above, you can significantly reduce the chances of horse flies invading your home and creating a less pleasant living environment. Remember to be persistent and proactive in your efforts.
