Readers have responded to a recent article about the swarms of houseflies affecting the UK in hot weather, sharing their own experiences and offering solutions.
Memories of past fly problems
Mal Jones from Cardiff recalls a significant decline in fly numbers over the past 20 years, aside from Highland midges. He remembers childhood summers in the 1950s and 60s, when sticky flytraps were common near doorways, and any food left out would attract flies within seconds. Picnics were a constant battle against flying insects, including wasps, which would even take to swimming in beer until intoxicated. He notes that this year's swarms of butterflies are a different, delightful sight.
Concerns about suggested solutions
Jonathon Moloney from Leighton Buzzard, Bedfordshire, feels that the ideas presented in the article to alleviate fly infestations are out of touch for many sufferers. He points out that those living in flats without gardens cannot create wildlife ponds or turn outdoor spaces into havens for wildlife, leaving them without resolution.
Practical advice from abroad
Dr Janet Dawson from Bennwil, Switzerland, recommends fitting permanent insect screens to all windows and doors. While this can be expensive, it is a one-off cost and allows windows to be open at night for ventilation without letting insects in. However, she notes that most UK windows open outwards, which makes fixing screens more challenging than in Switzerland, and hopes for an innovative solution for UK windows.
Phil Rusling from Saint-Jean-le-Vieux, France, reports that despite living next to a sheep farm, this summer has seen very few flies. He initially felt relief, but soon became concerned that the decline in fly numbers indicates a worrying overall decline in the insect population.
