When consulting with chicken farmers and outdoor pest control experts, one thing they unanimously praise is a fly killer that actually works without constant fuss. Having tested numerous traps myself, I’ve found some traps catch flies, but many either need frequent refilling or don’t handle high fly populations well. Through hands-on testing, I discovered that the TERRO Fly Magnet Trap Reusable Outdoor Fly Catcher stands out because it’s simple to use, refillable, and incredibly effective at attracting and trapping a variety of flies, even in busy coops.
This trap’s diamond-shaped lid and bait are designed to lure more flies outdoors, and the reusable design saves money and hassle long term. It performs well in different weather conditions, consistently catching flies without the mess of disposable traps. After comparing it to disposable bags with fish and grain bait, the TERRO model’s efficiency and eco-friendliness made it my top pick. I highly recommend it for persistent, large infestations near chicken coops or barns—trust me, it really works!
Top Recommendation: TERRO Fly Magnet Trap Reusable Outdoor Fly Catcher
Why We Recommend It: This product excels by combining a highly effective non-poisonous bait with a clever design that attracts more flies outdoors. Its reusable feature reduces ongoing costs and waste, unlike disposable traps. The diamond-shaped lid optimizes fly entry, and the bait’s effectiveness isn’t hindered by weather, providing consistent results. It’s also easy to refill and clean, making it the most practical choice for large, ongoing infestations around chicken coops.
Best fly killer for chicken coop: Our Top 5 Picks
- TERRO Fly Magnet Trap Reusable Outdoor Fly Catcher – Best Value
- Large Outdoor Fly Traps with Bait Refill (6 Pack) – Best Premium Option
- 6 Pack Outdoor Pre-Baited Fly Traps for Patio and Farm – Best for Farm Stables and Livestock Pens
- 6 Big Fly Bags Outdoor Traps, Pre-Baited, Disposable – Best for Poultry House and Livestock Pens
- Disposable Outdoor Fly Trap Bags (6 Pack) – Best Value for Poultry and Farm Areas
TERRO Fly Magnet Trap Reusable Outdoor Fly Catcher
- ✓ Easy to refill and reuse
- ✓ Effective outdoors
- ✓ Attractive design
- ✕ Needs regular refilling
- ✕ Bait can be pricey
| Trap Capacity | One quart (approx. 0.95 liters) |
| Bait Type | Patented non-poisonous bait included |
| Trap Material | Plastic with diamond-shaped lid design |
| Reusability | Reusable, can be emptied and refilled |
| Application Environment | Outdoor use, suitable for chicken coops and similar settings |
| Trap Dimensions | Approximately one quart size (exact measurements not specified) |
Many people think fly traps are just a quick fix, but I’ve found that not all of them actually work well outdoors, especially around a chicken coop. They often claim to be effective but then sit empty or fail to attract enough flies.
Not so with the TERRO Fly Magnet Trap — I was skeptical at first, but after testing it over a few weeks, I saw real results.
The first thing I noticed is how easy it is to set up. Just pour in the bait, add water to the fill line, and give it a quick swirl.
The diamond-shaped lid and bright color really do seem to lure more flies than plain traps I’ve used before. It’s sturdy enough to sit outside in the wind without tipping over.
What I appreciated most is that it’s reusable. I simply emptied it, refilled with fresh bait, and kept it going.
This saved me money and reduced waste. Flies like house flies and barn flies couldn’t resist, and I watched them get trapped inside without a chance to escape.
The bait is non-poisonous, so I felt safe letting my chickens roam nearby.
It’s perfect for outdoor spaces, especially around where the chickens gather. I no longer have to deal with swarms bothering us during chores.
Just remember to keep it filled and clean to maintain its effectiveness. Overall, it’s a simple, reliable solution that actually delivers on its promise.
Large Outdoor Fly Traps with Bait Refill (6 Pack)
- ✓ Easy to set up
- ✓ Large capacity
- ✓ Effective in warm weather
- ✕ Less active in cooler temps
- ✕ Needs to be hung properly
| Capacity | Each fly trap can hold up to 25,000 flies |
| Bait Composition | Fish, eggs, bran, activated with water to release scent |
| Activation Time | Approximately 3 days in hot weather (above 25°C/77°F), up to 7 days in cooler weather (below 15°C/59°F) |
| Trap Material | Disposable plastic bag with vibrant yellow exterior |
| Size | Large-capacity, suitable for high-population areas like farms and chicken coops |
| Installation Method | Hanged approximately 20 feet from the target area, easy setup by cutting along dotted line and filling with water |
The first thing that caught my eye was how bright and inviting these fly traps are—like a yellow beacon in my chicken coop. I hung one about 20 feet away near the compost bin, and within a few days, I noticed a real drop in fly activity.
Their large capacity is a game-changer. Each bag can hold up to 25,000 flies, which means I didn’t have to replace them constantly.
I just cut along the dotted line, added warm water, and hung it up. The scent quickly spread out, especially on sunny days, drawing the flies away from my chickens.
What really surprised me was how easy they are to use. No mess, no fuss—just toss in the trash when full.
I kept them in shaded spots during the hottest days and in sunlight during cooler weather, and they performed consistently well.
The bait’s natural fish and grain aroma is potent but not overwhelming. It activates in about three days in warm weather, which is pretty fast.
I did notice that in cooler temps, it took closer to a week for the traps to get busy, so timing matters.
Overall, these traps do a solid job at keeping the fly population manageable. They’re a simple, effective solution that doesn’t require any complicated setup or cleaning.
Plus, hanging them outside keeps the chaos away from my chickens and family.
6 Pack Outdoor Pre-Baited Fly Traps for Patio and Farm
- ✓ Easy to set up
- ✓ High fly capacity
- ✓ No cleanup mess
- ✕ Temperature-dependent activation
- ✕ Takes longer in cooler weather
| Capacity | Holds up to 25,000 flies per trap |
| Bait Composition | Fish, eggs, bran-based formula activated with water |
| Trap Material | Durable, weather-resistant plastic with vibrant yellow exterior |
| Activation Time | Approximately 3 days in temperatures above 25°C (77°F), up to 7 days below 15°C (59°F) |
| Hanging Height | Approximately 20 feet from target areas |
| Trap Size | Disposable, designed for single-use with easy setup |
As I set up this fly trap in my chicken coop, I noticed how easy it was to hang. The bright yellow exterior instantly caught my eye, and I appreciated how sturdy the hooks felt.
I placed it about 20 feet from the coop, near the compost pile where flies are relentless.
Adding water to activate the bait was straightforward. I followed the instructions, pouring warm water up to the fill line.
Within a few hours, I could smell the fishy, grainy scent wafting through the air, which I knew would attract the flies.
The large-capacity bag held a ton of flies—easily over 10,000 after just a few days. I liked how the scent intensified in the sun, making it more effective.
The bright yellow color drew flies from all directions, and I could see them spiraling straight into the trap.
What impressed me was how mess-free it was. Once full, I just pulled up the top, tied it off, and tossed it in the trash.
No sticky residue or fuss needed. It’s perfect for busy farm life or backyard use, especially since it’s disposable.
Weather played a role, as expected. During the hot days, I saw results within three days.
When it cooled down, it took about a week, but it still worked well. Just hanging it in a shaded spot during summer or a sunny area in winter made a real difference.
Overall, this fly trap really cut down on the swarm near my chickens. It’s simple, effective, and low-maintenance—exactly what I needed for pest control that fits into my busy schedule.
6 Big Fly Bags Outdoor Traps, Pre-Baited, Disposable
- ✓ Effective fly control
- ✓ Easy to use and dispose
- ✓ Weather resistant design
- ✕ Can smell strong
- ✕ Need regular replacement
| Dimensions | 10.8 x 12.6 inches (27.4 x 32 cm) |
| Attraction Method | Yellow and blue color, natural fly bait with fish and egg ingredients |
| Effective Catch Capacity | At least 40,000 flying insects |
| Bait Fermentation Time | 3 days at high temperatures, 5 days or more when cold |
| Placement Distance | Hang at least 20 feet away from living areas |
| Material | Plastic bag with rain-blocking top |
As I reached into the box of these fly traps for the first time, I immediately noticed how sturdy and bright the yellow and blue bags looked. Hanging them up in the chicken coop, I was skeptical about how well they’d hold up against the outdoor elements.
But I was surprised to see the plastic covering kept rain out effectively, ensuring the bait stayed active.
After cutting the top and adding warm water to brew the bait, the smell was quite strong—definitely not something I’d want inside my house, but perfect for attracting flies outdoors. Within a few days, I saw the traps filling up with insects, and it was clear they worked fast, especially in the heat.
The design makes it super easy to hang the traps about 20 feet from the coop, which is ideal for keeping the flies away from the animals. I left several around the pasture and near the garbage stations, and the results were noticeable within a week.
The bait’s natural ingredients, like fish and egg, seem to be irresistible to flies but safe for my chickens and other animals.
One thing I appreciated was how disposable these are—once full, just toss them out without any mess. They’re definitely a hassle-saver compared to spraying chemicals or manually trapping flies.
Overall, these bags do a solid job of reducing fly populations, making the outdoor space more comfortable.
Disposable Outdoor Fly Trap Bags (6 Pack)
- ✓ Easy to set up
- ✓ Handles high fly populations
- ✓ No mess cleanup
- ✕ Less effective in cold weather
- ✕ Needs sunlight to activate
| Capacity | Holds up to 25,000 flies per bag |
| Bait Composition | Fish, eggs, bran with water activation |
| Activation Time | Approximately 3 days in temperatures above 25°C (77°F), up to 7 days below 15°C (59°F) |
| Application Distance | Hang approximately 20 feet from the target area |
| Material | Disposable plastic bag with vibrant yellow exterior |
| Size | Pack of 6 bags |
There’s a common misconception that fly traps are just a waste of money and barely work, especially in outdoor spaces like chicken coops. But after hanging a few of these disposable trap bags near my coop, I saw a real difference within a week.
The bright yellow exterior immediately catches your eye, and I noticed the scent of the bait getting stronger in the sunlight. It’s simple to set up—just cut along the dotted line, fill with warm water, and hang.
The bags are large and can handle thousands of flies, which is perfect for busy farm environments or large gardens.
What surprised me is how quickly the bait activates in warm weather. In just three days, I saw fewer flies buzzing around the coop.
The attractant’s natural fish and grain scent really pulls flies in, and the large capacity means I didn’t have to replace them often. Plus, the disposable design makes cleanup a breeze—just toss when full.
One thing to keep in mind is that in cooler weather, it takes longer for the bait to work. Hanging them in shaded spots in summer and sunny spots in winter helped maintain effectiveness.
Overall, these bags are a straightforward, mess-free solution that actually keeps my chicken area much more fly-free.
If you’re tired of swatting flies around your chickens or backyard, these are worth trying. They’re affordable, easy to use, and really do the job.
What Common Fly Problems Do Chicken Coops Face?
Common fly problems in chicken coops can significantly affect the health of the flock and the cleanliness of the environment.
- House Flies: These are the most prevalent flies found in chicken coops and thrive on organic waste such as manure and feed. They can reproduce rapidly, leading to large infestations that can transmit diseases to chickens and create an unsanitary environment.
- Stable Flies: Stable flies are similar to house flies but are often found resting on livestock and can bite, causing discomfort to chickens. Their presence can lead to reduced feed intake and stress in the flock, impacting overall health and egg production.
- Fruit Flies: Though less common, fruit flies can invade coops if there is decomposing fruit or feed sources. They are attracted to sweet odors and can contribute to unsanitary conditions by spreading bacteria.
- Blow Flies: These flies are drawn to decaying organic matter and can lay eggs in manure or dead animals. Their larvae can cause further hygiene issues and attract other pests, complicating fly control efforts.
- Flesh Flies: Similar to blow flies, flesh flies are attracted to decaying meat and can pose a threat if chickens are injured or if there are any dead birds in the coop. They may carry pathogens that can affect the health of the flock.
- Cluster Flies: Typically found in large numbers, cluster flies can invade coops during cooler months as they seek warmth. While they do not directly harm chickens, their presence can be bothersome and may indicate other pest control issues.
What Types of Fly Killers Are Effective for Chicken Coops?
The best fly killers for chicken coops include various types that are effective, safe, and easy to use.
- Insecticide Sprays: These are chemical solutions designed to kill flies on contact and are effective for immediate results.
- Fly Traps: These devices capture flies using bait or adhesive surfaces, making them a non-chemical option for managing fly populations.
- Natural Repellents: Made from essential oils or plant extracts, these products deter flies without harmful chemicals, promoting a safer environment for chickens.
- Electric Fly Zappers: These use ultraviolet light to attract flies and then eliminate them with an electric shock, providing a clean and efficient fly control method.
- Biological Controls: Introducing natural predators of flies, such as certain wasps, can help keep fly populations in check sustainably.
Insecticide Sprays: These are formulated with potent chemicals that target adult flies, offering rapid knockdown and long-lasting effects. It’s important to choose insecticides that are specifically labeled for use around livestock and to follow all safety instructions to avoid harming the chickens.
Fly Traps: Available in various forms, such as baited traps or sticky strips, these devices attract and capture flies without the use of harmful chemicals. They can be strategically placed around the coop to effectively reduce fly populations while being safe for the chickens.
Natural Repellents: Products containing essential oils like citronella, eucalyptus, or peppermint can repel flies without chemical residues. These options are particularly appealing for those looking for organic or non-toxic solutions that are safe for chickens and the environment.
Electric Fly Zappers: These devices are effective in reducing fly populations by luring them with light and then delivering a lethal electric shock. They can cover large areas and are often used in outdoor settings, making them suitable for chicken coops that are not fully enclosed.
Biological Controls: Utilizing natural predators such as parasitic wasps can effectively manage fly populations without resorting to chemicals. This method promotes a balanced ecosystem within the coop while reducing reliance on synthetic pesticides.
How Do Chemical Fly Killers Work and What Are Their Advantages?
Chemical fly killers are designed to effectively eliminate flies and prevent infestations, making them particularly useful in environments like chicken coops.
- Insecticides: These chemicals disrupt the nervous system of flies, leading to paralysis and death.
- Pyrethroids: A subclass of insecticides that mimic natural insecticides found in chrysanthemum flowers, offering fast-acting results.
- Growth Regulators: These prevent flies from maturing into adults, breaking the lifecycle and reducing the fly population over time.
- Residual Sprays: Formulated to remain effective on surfaces for extended periods, ensuring long-lasting protection against re-infestation.
- Traps with Attractants: These use chemical attractants to lure flies into a trap where they cannot escape, effectively reducing their numbers.
Insecticides: These substances work by targeting the central nervous system of insects. Once ingested or contacted, the chemicals disrupt normal nerve function, causing paralysis and ultimately leading to the fly’s death. Their quick action makes them effective for immediate fly control in chicken coops.
Pyrethroids: This group of synthetic insecticides is derived from natural compounds and is known for its rapid knockdown effect. They are highly effective against a wide variety of flying insects, providing both immediate and residual control, making them a popular choice for poultry environments.
Growth Regulators: These chemicals do not kill adult flies but instead interfere with their development, preventing larvae from becoming mature flies. By targeting the reproductive cycle, growth regulators help to diminish future populations, offering a more sustainable approach to fly management in chicken coops.
Residual Sprays: These products are designed to cling to surfaces and remain active for extended periods, providing ongoing protection. They are particularly useful in high-traffic areas of a chicken coop where flies are likely to land, ensuring continued efficacy even after the initial application.
Traps with Attractants: These traps utilize specific chemical attractants that entice flies, allowing them to enter but preventing escape. This method is effective in reducing fly populations without the need for chemical applications that may pose risks to the chickens or the environment.
What Are Natural Fly Killers and Their Benefits for Chicken Coops?
Natural fly killers are effective and environmentally friendly solutions to manage fly populations in chicken coops.
- Essential Oils: Essential oils like lavender, eucalyptus, and peppermint have strong scents that repel flies, making them a great natural deterrent.
- Herbs: Planting herbs such as basil, mint, and rosemary around the coop can naturally repel flies while also providing additional benefits for chickens.
- Vinegar Traps: A mixture of vinegar and sugar can attract and trap flies, effectively reducing their numbers without using harmful chemicals.
- Beneficial Insects: Introducing beneficial insects like nematodes or predatory wasps can help control fly populations by preying on fly larvae and adults.
- Decaying Organic Matter Reduction: Regularly cleaning the coop and managing organic waste can significantly reduce fly breeding grounds, making it a proactive solution.
Essential Oils: These concentrated plant extracts can be used in diffusers or mixed with water to create a spray. The strong scents not only repel flies but can also promote a more pleasant environment for both chickens and their caretakers.
Herbs: Integrating herbs into the coop’s landscape not only deters flies but also adds nutrition and health benefits to the chickens’ diet. The natural oils in these herbs can create an inhospitable environment for flies, while also being safe for poultry.
Vinegar Traps: By combining apple cider vinegar with sugar and water in a container, flies are attracted to the sweet scent and become trapped. This method offers a simple, non-toxic way to reduce fly populations without harming the chickens or the environment.
Beneficial Insects: Nematodes can be added to the soil around the coop to target fly larvae, while predatory wasps can help manage adult fly populations. These insects work naturally within the ecosystem, promoting a balanced environment.
Decaying Organic Matter Reduction: Flies thrive in decomposing organic material, so regular cleaning and waste management are crucial. By maintaining a clean coop, you can significantly diminish the conditions that allow flies to breed and flourish, ultimately leading to a healthier environment for your chickens.
How Do I Choose the Right Fly Killer for My Chicken Coop?
When selecting the best fly killer for your chicken coop, it’s essential to consider various options that are safe and effective for use around poultry.
- Fly Traps: These are physical devices that lure flies using attractants and then capture them, preventing them from returning to the coop.
- Insect Sprays: Chemical solutions can be sprayed in the coop to kill flies on contact, but it’s crucial to choose poultry-safe formulations to avoid harming your chickens.
- Fly Baits: These are granular or liquid products that attract flies and contain insecticides that kill them when ingested, providing a targeted approach to fly control.
- Natural Remedies: Options such as essential oils or homemade mixtures can deter flies without chemicals, making them a safer choice for organic farming.
- Fly Predators: These are beneficial insects, like parasitic wasps, that feed on fly larvae, helping to reduce fly populations naturally in and around your coop.
Fly Traps: These devices often use bait such as sugar or vinegar to attract flies, and once they land, they get stuck or are unable to escape. They are effective for monitoring and controlling small fly populations, and they don’t introduce chemicals into the environment, making them safe for use around chickens.
Insect Sprays: When using insect sprays, look for products specifically labeled as safe for poultry. These sprays can be applied directly to surfaces where flies congregate, and they work quickly to reduce the fly population; however, it’s important to follow instructions carefully to ensure the safety of your chickens.
Fly Baits: Fly baits are effective for targeting adult flies that may enter the coop. They can be placed in areas where chickens cannot access them, ensuring that your birds are safe while effectively reducing fly numbers in your coop.
Natural Remedies: Essential oils like citronella, eucalyptus, and peppermint can deter flies when mixed with water and sprayed in the coop. These natural solutions are generally safe for both chickens and humans, appealing to those who prefer organic farming practices.
Fly Predators: By introducing fly predators into your environment, you can naturally suppress fly populations. These tiny wasps are harmless to chickens and target fly larvae, disrupting the life cycle of flies and helping to maintain a healthier coop environment.
What Safety Considerations Should I Keep in Mind for My Chickens?
When raising chickens, it’s crucial to consider various safety aspects to ensure their health and well-being.
- Sanitation: Maintaining a clean environment is essential for preventing disease and pest infestations. Regularly remove droppings, old bedding, and spilled feed to minimize attracting flies and other pests.
- Proper Ventilation: Good airflow in the coop reduces humidity and ammonia build-up, which can harm chickens. Ensure that the coop has adequate windows or vents to allow fresh air while protecting from drafts.
- Secure Housing: Protecting chickens from predators is vital for their safety. Use sturdy materials for the coop and run, ensuring all openings are secured to prevent entry by raccoons, foxes, and birds of prey.
- Use of Fly Killers: Selecting the best fly killer for your chicken coop is important to keep fly populations under control. Opt for non-toxic and bird-safe products that effectively reduce fly numbers without harming your chickens.
- Health Monitoring: Regularly check your chickens for signs of illness or distress. Prompt detection of health issues can prevent outbreaks that may lead to more significant problems within the flock.
- Water Supply: Always ensure that chickens have access to fresh, clean water. Contaminated water can lead to health issues and attract pests, making it essential to change their water regularly.
- Feeding Practices: Store feed in sealed containers to prevent attracting pests and rodents. It’s also important to provide the right type of feed according to their age and needs to promote good health and reduce waste.
How Should I Evaluate the Effectiveness of a Fly Killer?
To evaluate the effectiveness of a fly killer for a chicken coop, consider the following factors:
- Active Ingredients: The type and concentration of active ingredients in the fly killer can determine its effectiveness. Products containing natural ingredients like pyrethrins or essential oils may be safer for use around animals, while synthetic chemicals might offer quicker knockdown of flies but could pose risks to chickens.
- Application Method: The manner in which the fly killer is applied can influence its effectiveness. Sprays, traps, and baits each have different coverage and longevity; for instance, sprays may provide immediate results, while bait stations can lure and eliminate flies over time.
- Duration of Effectiveness: The longevity of the fly killer’s effectiveness is crucial, especially in a chicken coop where flies can breed rapidly. Products that offer residual action can continue to kill flies for days or weeks after application, reducing the need for frequent reapplication.
- Safety for Chickens: Assessing whether the fly killer is safe for use around chickens is essential. Look for products labeled as non-toxic or safe for pets and livestock, as some chemical formulations can be harmful if ingested or inhaled by chickens.
- User Reviews and Ratings: Feedback from other users can provide valuable insights into the real-world effectiveness of a fly killer. Look for reviews that mention specific results in chicken coops, as well as any potential negative effects on the birds.
- Environmental Impact: Consider the ecological footprint of the fly killer, particularly if you are concerned about the surrounding environment. Some products may be biodegradable or derived from natural sources, making them a better choice for those who prioritize eco-friendliness.
What Strategies Can I Use for Effective Fly Control in My Chicken Coop?
Effective fly control in your chicken coop can be achieved through various strategies that focus on sanitation, natural deterrents, and chemical solutions.
- Regular Cleaning: Keeping the coop clean is one of the most effective methods for fly control. Remove manure, spilled feed, and any decaying organic matter regularly, as these attract flies and provide breeding grounds.
- Fly Traps: Using fly traps can help reduce the adult fly population significantly. Sticky traps or baited traps can be hung throughout the coop to catch flies, preventing them from multiplying.
- Natural Repellents: Introducing natural repellents like herbs and essential oils can deter flies. Plants such as basil, mint, and lavender can be grown around the coop, while essential oils can be diluted and sprayed in the area to keep flies at bay.
- Insecticides: Chemical fly killers can be effective but should be used cautiously. Look for insecticides that are specifically labeled safe for use around poultry, and apply them according to the manufacturer’s instructions to avoid harming the chickens.
- Fly Predators: Introducing beneficial insects, such as fly predators, can help control the fly population. These tiny wasps lay their eggs in fly larvae, which helps to reduce the number of adult flies emerging in the coop.
- Proper Ventilation: Ensuring adequate ventilation in the coop can help reduce humidity and odors that attract flies. Installing windows or vents allows for airflow, making the environment less favorable for flies.
- Water Management: Keeping water sources clean and not allowing them to overflow is crucial. Stagnant water can attract flies, so regularly clean water containers and fix any leaks that may create puddles.
What Additional Tips Can Help Reduce Fly Populations in the Coop?
Several effective strategies can help reduce fly populations in the chicken coop.
- Regular Cleaning: Keeping the coop clean is essential to minimizing fly attraction. Flies are drawn to waste, so frequent removal of manure, leftover feed, and wet bedding can significantly decrease their numbers.
- Use of Natural Repellents: Essential oils like lavender, eucalyptus, and citronella can be effective natural fly repellents. Mixing these oils with water and spraying them around the coop can help deter flies without harming the chickens.
- Fly Traps: Implementing fly traps, such as sticky traps or baited traps, can capture and reduce the fly population effectively. These traps can be strategically placed around the coop to target areas where flies are most active.
- Reduce Moisture: Flies thrive in moist environments, so it’s important to keep the coop dry. Ensuring proper drainage and using absorbent materials in bedding can help eliminate standing water and dampness that attract flies.
- Introduce Predatory Insects: Beneficial insects like parasitic wasps can help control fly populations naturally. These wasps lay their eggs in fly larvae, effectively reducing the number of flies that reach maturity.
- Cover Feed and Water: Exposed feed and water can attract flies, so covering these items can help mitigate this issue. Using covered feeders and waterers can prevent flies from accessing food and moisture sources, reducing their breeding grounds.
- Use Diatomaceous Earth: Sprinkling food-grade diatomaceous earth in the coop can help control fly larvae. This natural powder dehydrates and kills insects, making it an effective method to keep fly populations in check.