Horse flies are a common nuisance during warm weather, their painful bites capable of ruining any outdoor activity. These persistent pests, of which over 350 species exist in the United States and Canada, hunt primarily by sight and are relentless in their pursuit. Fortunately, there are several proven methods to deter these biting flies and reclaim your outdoor enjoyment.
Horse fly on a leaf
Effective Ways to Repel Horse Flies
Various techniques have been developed to minimize horse fly encounters, ranging from commercial repellents to simple behavioral adjustments. Here are nine strategies to help you keep horse flies at bay:
1. Utilize Liquid Repellents
While horse flies hunt by sight, liquid repellents like DEET can offer several hours of protection. According to entomologist Lee Townsend of the University of Kentucky College of Agriculture, these chemical repellents can effectively deter horse flies. Some individuals also advocate for essential oil blends, such as peppermint, citronella, and lavender, as natural repellents.
2. Minimize Movement
Horse flies are attracted to movement. Remaining still can reduce their attraction, making you less of a target. While this might not always be practical, it can be effective in short bursts.
Person standing still in a field
3. Create Distance
Although you can’t outrun a horse fly, they are often territorial. Continuing to move, whether walking, hiking, or biking, may allow you to outdistance an individual fly. Pest management specialist Jim Dill notes that a persistent fly may eventually leave you behind after a short distance, though another may soon take its place.
4. Opt for Light-Colored Clothing
Dark colors, especially blue, attract horse flies. Wearing lighter colors or white can make you less visible to these pests. This observation is supported by research on horse fly traps, which utilize dark colors to lure the insects.
5. Steer Clear of Water
Horse flies breed in wet areas like marshes and along the edges of ponds and streams. Avoiding these habitats can significantly reduce your encounters with these insects.
Marshland, a breeding ground for horse flies
6. Protect Your Head with a Hat
Horse flies are particularly drawn to the back of the head, often burrowing into hair to bite the scalp. Wearing a hat provides a physical barrier and can significantly reduce bites. A hat with a brim offers added protection for your face, ears, and neck.
7. Employ a Sticky Trap Hat
Covering a hat with a sticky substance like Tree Tanglefoot creates an effective trap for horse flies. The flies are attracted to the hat and become stuck, preventing them from biting.
8. Utilize Dryer Sheets
Anecdotal evidence suggests that the strong scent of dryer sheets can repel horse flies. Some people rub the sheets on their clothing or skin, while others place them in their hats. While scientific evidence is limited for horse flies, studies have shown dryer sheets to be effective against other insects like fungus gnats.
Dryer sheets, a potential horse fly repellent
9. Walk with a Taller Companion
Horse flies tend to swarm around the highest point of a moving object. Walking with someone taller than you might make them a more attractive target for the flies.
By implementing these strategies, you can effectively minimize horse fly encounters and enjoy your time outdoors without the nuisance of painful bites. Remember to combine methods for optimal protection and tailor your approach to the specific environment and situation.
