For some reason this year we have an abundance of flies in our yard and cannot find anyway of getting rid of them.
Answer
Obviously something is attracting these flies. The sun shining on a bright object can give off odors that attract them. Also, many insects die off after laying eggs, etc. that may attract flies. Are you sure there can't be any little dead critters around? In the house gutters, in bushes, etc.? Flies are also often attracted to certain types of flower smells. One example is the native pawpaw. If you can't find any source, a solution might be: 1. In the evening, or when the flies aren't active, cover the flowers with some sort of cloth, sheet, etc. Then put an old fashioned fly paper tape or two nearby to catch them. Usually these are available from the hardware store. The flypaper attracts them and they stick to it. Try leaving it on for a couple of days. 2. Get a butterfly net from the dollar+ store and catch them and squash them in the net with your foot. Dispose of them in the trash, don't leave them there. Sounds gross but it works. Chemical insect sprays can be used. Best of luck.