Yellow flies are here, here’s how to protect your family and your pets

SANTA ROSA BEACH, Fla. ( WMBB ) — When the seasons change, so do the animals. Yellow flies have been spotted in Walton County meaning the biting bug season is happening now.

“Yellow fly season lasts about six to eight weeks, but it can go a little longer just depending on the atmosphere around it,” said Bernadette Canut, South Walton County Mosquito Control District (SWCMCD).

Yellow flies are closely related to the horse fly and pack an uncomfortable punch with each bite.

The pollinators populate close to tree lines and high water areas making south Walton County prime real estate for the pesky bugs.

“The yellow fly actually uses it’s like a claw, like a saw-like instrument when they go to bite you,” Canut said.

SWCMCD said they can’t spray for them like mosquitos because yellow flies are only out between dawn and dusk. But they have some tips and tricks to protect yourself and your pets.

“Keep in mind, for the next six to eight weeks, just what you’re wearing. What time of day you’re going out and use a product with DEET,” Canut said.

Yellow flies are attracted to dark-colored clothing and shoes.

“Unlike a mosquito where they bite you and they leave, they have what they need and they take off. The yellow flies will continue their relentless, we like to say, and they will attack and they will attack again and again,” Canut said.

The district said 2022 was a heavy season for the flies, and 2023 was mild. The eggs take 12 months to hatch so only time will tell how many eggs the females laid last year and left us to deal with this season.

Yellow flies do not carry disease or any risk of illness, but some could be allergic to them.

Walton County residents south of the bay can pick up free yellow fly kits at the district to hang around their homes and trap the bugs.

Learn more facts about yellow fly season online.

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