Fall Pest Alert – Cluster Fly

Solutions suggested from Dr.Stuart Mitchell at PestWest.

Identification
Adults are 7-9 mm. Distinct thoracic stripes. Gray patterned abdomen.

Characteristics
Larvae parasitize earthworms. Three generations per year. Slow-moving. A pollinator. Over-winter and refuge (en masse) within structural spaces.

Controls
The PestWest Cluster Fly Lure is a powerful synomone to attract both female and male cluster flies. It’s sold separately and also an excellent add-on with PestWest Window Wonder Trap or PestWest flying insect management system to trap them.

And finally, excluding flies by sealing exterior openings, and applications of a properly labeled insecticide (chemical fence).

Place Window Wonder traps with Cluster Fly Lure year-round, but in greater numbers during the early fall, and late winter.
Place Window Wonder traps at bases of windows (especially on western and southern exposures).

Cluster flies are very annoying, but do not contaminate human food. As temperatures drop, flies invade structures to over-winter. On sunny days, flies are observed on western and southern windows, and within structural spaces. During brief activity, flies exhaust their energy and then spin on surfaces.

Place Window Wonder traps containing Cluster Fly Lures as to not come in contact with children and pets.
Replace glue boards when filled with flies and/or other insects or when overly dusty.
Replace Cluster Fly Lure every 30 days
Store Cluster Fly Lure in a dry, well-ventilated, and cool space.
Do not smoke or eat prior to handling Cluster Fly Lure.
Wash hands before and after handling Cluster Fly Lure.

* Prior to any attic or spatial deployments of Mantis and Titan systems, check and comply with all electrical and fire codes. Deploy Mantis and Titan systems per PestWest Instructions for Use.

Product codes:
110-000590: Window wonder
125-000198: Mantis 2×2
110-000606: Cluster fly lure
120-000050: Titan 300