5 Effective Ways to Eliminate Thunder Bugs Before Storm Warnings

National: How to Get Rid of Thunder Bugs Ahead of Storm Warnings

The Annoying Little Flies

A yellow weather warning has been issued by the Met Office, predicting heavy thunderstorms and showers over the weekend. While the primary concerns are lightning strikes and possible flooding, there is another unwelcome prospect that people in some areas might encounter – thunder flies. Also known as thunder bugs, thrips, or thripids, these annoying little flies invade both homes and gardens, usually arriving just before a storm. Despite their diminutive size, these tiny black insects can wreak havoc. They feed on a range of plants and can quickly become destructive, as they have a stinger and can puncture plants, fruit, and even animals.

Identifying Thunder Flies

If you find yourself being bothered by these unwelcome guests, it is important to identify them correctly to ensure the use of the most effective removal method. Thunder flies in Britain are typically small, growing to just one to two millimeters in length. They have narrow, fringed wings and usually have two pairs, although some species can also be wingless. There are approximately 150 species of thunder flies native to Britain, with some capable of biting. However, most of them are harmless and primarily affect plants. If you notice silver patches or black dots on your plants, they are likely being affected by thunder flies. Other signs may include new growth turning brown, curling, and appearing distorted.

Preventing Thunder Flies

Prevention is the best course of action when it comes to getting rid of thunder flies. Spotting them early is crucial. Wherever you observe these bugs, apply narrow-range oil, neem oil, or insecticidal soaps to reduce their numbers. Once their population is diminished, removing them becomes easier. Destroy and prune any plants that have been affected, and be sure to dispose of any cuttings. Keeping plants moist is also important, as thunder bugs do not like damp environments. Therefore, misting or spraying your plants regularly is key. It is also crucial to vacuum around your home and add mesh to your backdoor and windows to block any potential entry points for the flies.

Infestations and Solutions

If, despite your efforts, you end up with an infestation in your house, there is no need to panic. The experts say that the bugs will leave as quickly as they arrived. Pest expert Chris Davis explained that these insects tend to appear in large numbers just before a thunderstorm. They are extremely annoying and can be found everywhere, including in your hair, behind picture frames, and even through fly screens. They can also scrape and irritate the skin surface. In most cases, the bugs will disappear as rapidly as they arrived, unless your house is situated next to a field of peas or beans – which thrips love. Davis advises that treating an infestation is not easy because most insecticidal formulations cannot adequately penetrate the cracks and crevices where the thrips congregate.

It is important to remember that thunder flies are a natural occurrence associated with stormy weather. While they can be bothersome, they are typically harmless to humans. By taking preventative measures and promptly addressing any signs of infestation, you can minimize the impact of thunder bugs in your home and garden.