Sand Fly Facts & Information

What You Can Do to Get Rid of Sand Flies

Large-scale control of sand flies can be challenging due to their hidden breeding sites and cryptic habitats. Here’s what you can do:

• Contact Local Authorities:

  Reach out to your mosquito abatement district or a local/state agency specializing in wide-area pest control.

• Consult an Exterminator:

  Professional pest inspections and treatment plans are your best bet for small-scale control around your home or business.

What Orkin Does to Control Sand Flies

Since every building or home is different, your Orkin Pro will design a unique fly treatment program for your situation. Contact your local Orkin branch to schedule an inspection and get help with fly control.

What do sand flies look like?

Sand flies are tiny insects, about 3 mm long, with hairy wings held in a distinctive V-shape when at rest. Their long piercing mouthparts are specialized for blood-feeding, and their six legs are remarkably long, often exceeding the body’s length. They may appear golden, brownish, or gray.

What do sand flies eat?

• Females require a blood meal to lay eggs. They target a wide range of hosts, from humans to animals like deer, cattle, and horses.

• Males and Females also feed on sugary substances such as plant nectar and honeydew.

When are sand flies most active?

Sand flies predominantly bite during the evening and night. However, if disturbed from their resting sites, these tiny pests may also attack during the day. They typically rest in:

• Dry tree holes

• Hollow logs

• Palm tree crowns

• The canopy of tropical forests

• Inside homes

Sand Fly Lifecycle

• Eggs: Females lay 30–70 eggs in moist soil, rich in organic material. Eggs hatch within two weeks.

• Larvae: Larval stages last around three weeks but can extend under cool conditions.

• Pupae: The non-feeding pupal stage lasts 1–2 weeks before adults emerge.

• Adults: Males disperse first, followed by females, who actively seek hosts for blood meals. The lifecycle typically spans 1–3 months.

Signs of Sand Fly Infestation

Sand flies often leave behind subtle clues that can tip you off to their presence, so keeping a watchful eye on your home and surroundings is key. Signs include the presence of tiny sand flies and painful, itchy bites they leave behind. In some cases, infestations can also be linked to diseases they transmit, such as leishmaniasis or sand fly fever, making it important to stay vigilant and address the problem quickly.

Where do sand flies live?

Sand flies are categorized as either Old World or New World species:

• Old World sand flies (e.g., Phlebotomus species) are native to Africa, Europe, and parts of Asia.

• New World sand flies (e.g., Lutzomyia species) inhabit North and South America, from New Jersey in the U.S. to coastal regions southward.

Sand Fly Prevention

Because sand flies can transmit diseases, protecting yourself when you’re spending time outdoors in areas they’re common in is essential. Here are some effective methods to help you prevent sand fly bites and stay comfortable and safe.

• Wear permethrin-treated clothing when exploring sand fly-prone areas.

• Cover exposed skin with protective clothing.

• Eliminate standing water and keep organic waste out of your yard to reduce breeding grounds.

• Use insecticides or sprays when necessary.