Are you looking for ways to get rid of lake flies? If so, you’ve come to the right place. Lake flies can be an annoying pest, especially during the summer months when they are most active. Fortunately, there are several methods you can use to keep lake flies away from your property. Read on to learn more about what lake flies are and how to get rid of them.
What Are Lake Flies?
Lake flies, also known as midges, are small, non-biting insects that are found in lakes, rivers, and streams. They get their name from the fact that they often swarm near the surface of the water in large numbers. Lake flies are not dangerous, but they can be a nuisance if they infest your home or yard.
How to Identify Lake Flies
Lake flies are usually small, about 1/8 of an inch long. They have long, slender bodies and four wings that are held flat over their bodies. Lake flies are usually light brown in color, but some species may be darker. They often swarm near the surface of the water in large numbers, and can be seen flying around lights at night.
What Attracts Lake Flies?
Lake flies are attracted to moist areas, and they tend to swarm in areas with high levels of humidity. They are also attracted to light, so they may be seen flying around lights at night. Lake flies are also attracted to decaying organic matter like leaves and grass clippings, as well as to standing water.
How to Get Rid of Lake Flies
Fortunately, there are several steps you can take to get rid of lake flies. The first step is to reduce the number of lake flies that are attracted to your property. This can be done by removing sources of standing water, such as bird baths, old tires, and buckets. You should also reduce the amount of decaying organic matter around your home, such as leaves and grass clippings.
If the lake flies are still a problem, you can use insecticides to kill them. There are several different types of insecticides available, so be sure to read the label carefully to ensure you are using the right product. Insecticides should only be used as a last resort, and you should always follow the manufacturer’s instructions when using them.
You can also use natural methods to get rid of lake flies. For example, you can attract bats and dragonflies to your property, which will help to naturally control the population of lake flies. You can also use sticky traps or diatomaceous earth to trap the lake flies and keep them away from your property.
Conclusion
Lake flies can be an annoying pest, but there are several methods you can use to get rid of them. By reducing sources of standing water and decaying organic matter, you can reduce the number of lake flies that are attracted to your property. If the problem persists, you can use insecticides or natural methods to get rid of the lake flies. With a little bit of effort, you can keep your property free of lake flies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are lake flies?
Lake flies, also known as midges, are small, non-biting insects that are found in lakes, rivers, and streams. They get their name from the fact that they often swarm near the surface of the water in large numbers.
What attracts lake flies?
Lake flies are attracted to moist areas, and they tend to swarm in areas with high levels of humidity. They are also attracted to light, so they may be seen flying around lights at night. Lake flies are also attracted to decaying organic matter like leaves and grass clippings, as well as to standing water.
How can I get rid of lake flies?
You can get rid of lake flies by reducing sources of standing water and decaying organic matter around your home. You can also use insecticides or natural methods, such as attracting bats and dragonflies, to control the population of lake flies.
Are lake flies dangerous?
No, lake flies are not dangerous. They are not known to bite or spread diseases, but they can be a nuisance if they infest your home or yard.
How can I tell if I have a lake fly infestation?
If you see large numbers of lake flies near the surface of the water, or flying around lights at night, you may have an infestation. You may also notice an abundance of decaying organic matter, such as leaves and grass clippings, around your home.
Do lake flies bite?
No, lake flies do not bite. They are not known to carry diseases, so they are generally harmless.
How long do lake flies live?
Lake flies typically live for about three weeks, although some species may live longer. They are most active during the summer months.
Do lake flies spread disease?
No, lake flies are not known to spread diseases. However, they may carry bacteria or fungi on their bodies, so it is important to keep your home clean and free of decaying organic matter to prevent any health risks.
Can I use insecticides to get rid of lake flies?
Yes, you can use insecticides to get rid of lake flies. However, insecticides should only be used as a last resort, and you should always follow the manufacturer’s instructions when using them.
Can I use sticky traps to get rid of lake flies?
Yes, you can use sticky traps to get rid of lake flies. Sticky traps are effective at trapping lake flies, and they are safe to use around pets and children.
How effective is diatomaceous earth at getting rid of lake flies?
Diatomaceous earth is an effective way to get rid of lake flies. It works by drying out the insects' exoskeletons, causing them to die from dehydration.