how to get rid of crane flies in garage

Living in the garage can be unpleasant at times and especially with the presence of crane flies. Nowadays, most garages serve various purposes from parking cars to storing tools and equipment. One thing that unites these garages is the presence of crane flies. These insects are often mistaken for mosquitoes due to their physical similarities. However, crane flies are harmless, unlike mosquitoes which can transmit diseases. In this article, we will look at how to get rid of crane flies in the garage.

Identifying Crane flies

Before we delve into how to get rid of crane flies, it's crucial to identify these insects. Most people mistake them for mosquitoes due to their long legs and wings. However, crane flies have a unique appearance with a slender body and long legs. They have wings that fold over their back, and some species have a pattern on their wings and bodies. Also, they have antennae that curve back at the tips, which makes them easy to identify. It's essential to know how to identify crane flies because you wouldn't want to eliminate beneficial insects from your garage.

Getting rid of Crane flies without chemicals

If you have pets or children, it's natural to worry about chemical solutions to eliminate crane flies. There are various non-chemical methods that you can use to get rid of crane flies. The first step is to remove the clutter in your garage, reducing the potential breeding sites for the insects. Secondly, you can use a vacuum cleaner to suck up the crane flies. Make sure to dispose of the vacuum bag outside your home to prevent them from coming back. Another effective method is using light traps that attract crane flies and trap them. You can place light traps near garage doors or windows to capture the insects.

Using Chemicals to get rid of Crane flies

If the non-chemical methods don't work, you can use chemical solutions to eliminate crane flies. Before using any chemical, read the instructions carefully to prevent accidents. One option is using an insecticide spray. You can spray the insecticide around the garage, focusing on areas where crane flies may breed. Make sure you ventilate the area and keep pets and kids out of the garage for a few hours after spraying. Another option is using bug bombs or fumigators, which release a fine mist that kills insects. Place the bombs in the center of the garage and ignite them as instructed on the package.

Preventing future infestations

The best way to prevent crane fly infestations is by keeping your garage clean and organized. Eliminate any clutter that may provide breeding sites for insects. Ensure that no standing water accumulates in your garage, as it can lead to mosquito infestations. You can also seal any entry points such as windows and doors to prevent insects from coming in your garage. Installing bug screens on windows can also help keep insects at bay.

Conclusion

Getting rid of crane flies from your garage may seem like a daunting task, but with the right approach, it's manageable. The key is to identify the insects, eliminate clutter, use non-chemical methods, and if all else fails, use insecticides. Always put your safety and that of your family members and pets first when using chemicals to eliminate insects. Finally, ensure that you take preventative measures to avoid future infestations. With these tips, your garage will be crane fly-free in no time.