The control of a fly nuisance problem in a woodland area adjacent to Rutland Water

Abstract

The proposed development of a caravan park in Burley Wood was postponed in 1979 due to the presence of Hydrotaea irritans (Fall .) . This species causes intense irritation to man by feeding upon skin secretions and is also of veterinary importance. The fly population was monitored for 10 weeks using a number of trapping methods . The efficiency of one of these, the malaise trap, was found to be greatly increased by the controlled release of carbon dioxide . Used together with habitat modification and locally applied insecticides and repellants this is considered potentially valuable in ameliorating the problem . It is likely that the development of Rutland Water will increase the local range of the fly .