Hover Flies in Georgia
Health RiskMedium
Damage RiskLow
NuisanceLow
How to Identify Hover Flies
These flies are known for their quick, hovering flight patterns, colorful bodies, and markings that often resemble bees or wasps. Hover flies are frequently seen around flowering plants and outdoor landscapes.
- Actual Size About ¼ to ½ inch long
- Characteristics These flies have small to medium-sized bodies with striped or patterned markings, and short antennae.
- Legs 6
- Antennae Yes
- Wings Yes, with one pair of wings that allow rapid movement and hovering behavior
What Do Hover Flies Do?
Hover flies are often attracted to flowering plants and vegetation where they search for food and suitable areas for activity. When they become numerous, they may create an unwanted fly presence around properties.
- Despite their appearance, hover flies do not sting and are harmless to people.
- Adult hover flies often feed on nectar and pollen, making them beneficial pollinators in gardens and landscapes.
- Hover fly larvae feed on small insects, including aphids and other plant pests, helping reduce pest populations naturally.
- They are strong fliers and can quickly change direction, allowing them to remain suspended in the air or move between plants.
Where Do You Find Hover Flies?
Hover flies are often found around yards, gardens, and natural areas where flowering plants provide food sources. Their numbers may increase during warmer months when plant growth and insect activity are higher. Common places you may find hover flies include:
- Gardens with flowering plants and shrubs
- Flower beds and landscaped areas
- Around trees, bushes, and dense vegetation
- Meadows, fields, and natural grassy areas
- Vegetable gardens and orchards
- Near patios, decks, and outdoor living spaces with nearby plants
- Parks and other areas with abundant flowers and greenery
- Around blooming plants, herbs, and other nectar-producing vegetation
What Should I Do If I Have Hover Flies in Georgia?
Hover flies can create a nuisance when they gather around flowering plants, gardens, and areas where people spend time outdoors. If activity is increasing, the following actions are recommended:
- Remove or limit excess flowering plants near entryways, patios, and outdoor gathering areas if hover fly activity becomes bothersome.
- Trim back overgrown vegetation, shrubs, and weeds around your home to reduce areas where flies may gather.
- Keep doors, windows, and other entry points closed or properly screened to help prevent flies from entering indoors.
- Use outdoor fans near patios or seating areas, as moving air can make it more difficult for flying insects to hover and remain nearby.
- Avoid planting large amounts of nectar-producing flowers directly near high-traffic areas if hover flies are becoming a nuisance.
- Contact a professional pest control company if hover fly activity becomes excessive or continues despite prevention efforts.
Top 5 FAQs About Hover Flies in Georgia
Searching for answers about hover flies and how to manage them? Review the FAQ section below, and contact us by phone or email if you need further support.
Are hover flies dangerous?
No, they are not considered dangerous to people. They do not sting or bite, and their bee-like appearance is mainly a natural defense that helps protect them from predators.
What do hover flies eat?
These flies primarily feed on nectar and pollen from flowers. Their larvae may feed on small insects and pests, including:
• Aphids
• Scale insects
• Thrips
• Other small soft-bodied insects
• Aphids
• Scale insects
• Thrips
• Other small soft-bodied insects
Why do hover flies hover in one place?
Hover flies have a unique ability to remain suspended in the air while flying. They often hover near flowers, plants, or people as they search for food, mates, or suitable areas to explore.
Are hover flies the same as bees or wasps?
No, hover flies are true flies and do not have the ability to sting. Their yellow and black markings may make them resemble bees or wasps, but they are harmless and only mimic these insects for protection.
When should I contact a professional pest control company for hover flies?
They are generally beneficial insects, but if large numbers become a nuisance around your home or outdoor spaces, a professional pest control company can inspect the area, identify contributing factors, and recommend solutions to help manage activity.
