Blow Fly
Blow flies are so called because they were believed to "blow" their eggs, or larvae on to exposed meats. It is a general description of a number of species of large buzzing flies, which include the Bluebottle, the Greenbottle and the Flesh Fly. They all like sunlight and are attracted to meat or carrion, and all may be found around dustbins in hot summer weather.
Their feeding habits (they vomit onto food to soften it up) and filthy feet, infect food, especially meat products, as they feed or seek egg-laying sites.
Health Risks
Animal excrement and domestic waste form an ideal breeding ground for flies, which means they can spread diseases. Their bodies can pick up disease from food waste and excrement and carry this to food or surfaces that they subsequently land on. Diseases can also be carried in a fly’s stomach, which can be transferred onto food from their saliva and faeces.
Control
The best method of fly control is to physically break the breeding cycle by making sure they cannot find anywhere to breed. This can be achieved by:
- Not leaving food uncovered on work surfaces.
- Ensuring that kitchen bins are lidded to prevent flies accessing food waste.
- Food waste should ideally be bagged prior to being put in the bin.
- Regularly clean in and around kitchen (including drains) and wheelie bins.
- Ensure your wheelie bin lid is kept closed to prevent flies gaining access.
- Do not leave bowls of dog/cat food out all day, especially in the kitchen.
If flies are present in the house, these can be controlled with the use of flypapers and fly sprays available in most supermarkets and hardware stores. However if larger infestations are a problem you can contact the Council’s Pest Control Officer who will come out to your premises and carry out treatment if required.
To request a treatment you will need to telephone one of our customer services units on either 01794 527700 or 01264 368000.
A list of our charges are available at the side of this page.