Mayfly

Mayflies are delicate insects with slender bodies, two or three long tail filaments, and prominent, veined wings held upright at rest. They range in color from pale yellow to brown and are typically 0.5 to 1 inch long. A key identifier is the presence of long cerci (tails) that can be longer than their body.

Mayflies are attracted to lights and can be found swarming near illuminated areas, especially near water sources. Large numbers of dead mayflies accumulating on windowsills, decks, and near exterior lights indicate a heavy local presence. You may also notice their shed exoskeletons (exuviae) clinging to vegetation near bodies of water.

MBPC focuses on managing mayfly populations through integrated pest management strategies. As a licensed pest control company in SC, we can provide recommendations to reduce attractants like exterior lighting near water sources. Chemical control is rarely necessary but may be considered in extreme cases, following all SC Department of Pesticide Regulation guidelines.

Reduce exterior lighting, especially near water sources, as mayflies are strongly attracted to light. Use yellow or sodium vapor lights, which are less attractive to insects. Keep windows and doors closed during peak mayfly activity periods, especially in spring and summer near the coast in SC.

Mayflies are aquatic insects, spending most of their lives as nymphs in clean, flowing water sources such as the Intracoastal Waterway, salt marshes, and tidal creeks around Myrtle Beach. Adults are typically found near these water bodies, often swarming in large numbers, particularly during their brief mating period. The humid subtropical climate of the Grand Strand provides suitable conditions for their development.

Peak activity: Spring-Summer