Fly infestation predicted this summer - here's what you need to know!

The Team from Neighbourly.co.nz

Numbers of the little black pests are already high, thanks to the warmer than average winter, and according to those in the Taranaki's pest control industry it's likely to get worse. Ian Charlton, the director of New Plymouth bug control firm PestAway, said he was already getting calls about the problem.

Flies can't heat themselves so die in colder temperatures. They rely on warm and moist weather to stay alive and breed in the warmer months, he said. However, MetService meteorologist Mark Bowe said while New Plymouth had enjoyed higher average temperatures throughout July and August it was hard to predict what this summer would be like.

Top 5 tips to help fight flies:
- Having a fan on and ventilating the house can deter flies from sticking around as they don't like wind.
- Keeping things clean and sealed, such as rubbish bins, can keep flies from being attracted inside. Also keep wheelie bins sealed and away from the house.
- Leave the spiders alone. Even if you're scared of the creatures and don't like the look of cobwebs, they are great for catching flies.
- Pyrethrum and rosemary deter away flies as they don't like the strong smells. Pyrethrum also has an ingredient that kills insects.
- If you have fruit trees, stay on top of decaying fruit and vegetables.

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Image: Stuff