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Horse flies are pests found almost anywhere and are always hunting for blood! They usually reside within forests, fields, and even backyards. If your home or property is facing a horse fly problem or infestation, don’t worry! We have highlighted valuable information about proper removal and prevention moving forward! Contact us today if your home is under a horse fly attack!

What Do They Look Like?

Horse flies are large insects capable of growing up to one and a quarter inches long. Their colors are usually black and yellow, featuring black wings and a yellow or sometimes orange body. Horse flies may even appear all black with orange legs. Their eyes are known to be significantly larger than most insects and are sensitive to motion, which helps them locate prey quickly. Overall, horse flies are unlike any other insect in appearance and can easily be recognized if you have never encountered them before! 

Horse Fly Prevention

Horse flies gravitate towards very moist areas, so removing any type of standing water near your property can heavily reduce the risk of horse flies approaching. Believe it or not, horse flies repel the scent of oil, specifically citronella oil! Spraying citronella oil around your yard or property is an effective solution to keep horse flies away! Fun fact! Many insect repellents are made from citronella oil! Flowers are also an excellent solution for keeping horse flies out of sight. Most flowers attract bees, and horse flies hate bees and tend to keep a far distance from them.

How to Protect Yourself

Horseflies are a nuisance that attack in the middle of the day. Repellent sprays containing citronella are the most effective solution for keeping them away. If your home is still under attack, other key tactics include wearing clothing to cover up skin. If you are experiencing a horsefly attack during the heat, be sure to wear light clothing. 

When Do Horse Flies Usually Arrive?

Horse flies usually appear during the hotter months of the year, but can appear as early as April. These pests have a reasonably short lifespan, arriving in the spring and disappearing by the fall. Oddly enough, horse flies are seen as seasonal pests and are only a nuisance for a short period. 

Horse Fly Bites

Horse flies are known to be very aggressive and tend to bite humans, causing painful wounds. These pests are known to bite any part of the body, whether it’s the neck or as low as your ankles. Humans may attempt to fight back, but unfortunately, it’s too late, and the horse flies usually fly away immediately after the bite. 

Contact the Experts at Absolut Pest Control

The most effective solution for horse fly removal is to leave it to the professionals! Absolut Pest Control is always here to help Massachusetts and New Hampshire residents with a proper and effective pest control process. Contact us today by calling (978)388-4589 or filling out our contact form for a free quote!