KNOW YOUR PESTS / KNOWLEDGE CENTER
The sand fly, known in Turkish as yakarca or tatarcık, is a small fly that can bite. Protection options include clothing that covers the skin, suitable insect screens and a repellent whose label explicitly lists sand flies. Not every insect repellent is authorised against sand flies. Do not choose a product based on the general term “fly”.
Last updated: 7 October 2026
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Some infected sand fly species can carry the Leishmania parasite, which can cause leishmaniasis. Risk depends on the species and region; not every sand fly bite means disease. Seek medical attention for persistent skin lesions or unusual symptoms. The products here are not presented with claims to treat or prevent disease.
On this page, yakarca and tatarcık are two common Turkish names for the same target: the sand fly. It is a very small fly with a hairy appearance. Not every small flying insect is a sand fly; the species cannot be conclusively identified from size or bite marks alone.
Sand flies appear smaller and hairier; at rest, they may hold their wings open and pointing upwards. Unlike mosquitoes, which develop in water, sand flies can develop in sheltered, moist areas containing organic matter. This difference in habitat matters for control.
Many species are more active from evening towards dawn. Shaded, moist and sheltered outdoor areas and cracks around buildings may provide suitable shelter. Fine-mesh insect screens and clothing that reduces exposed skin are especially relevant for this small pest.
Females are the ones that feed on blood; a bite may be noticed through itching or an individual skin reaction. A product’s suitability for mosquitoes does not automatically make it suitable for sand flies. Look for sand flies explicitly listed as a target and the product-specific duration on the label.
Reduce exposed skin outdoors in the evening and at night.
Check fine-mesh insect screens and openings around doors and windows.
Reduce organic waste and sheltered, damp accumulations around buildings.
If a product is needed, choose one whose label lists sand flies as a target and specifies the correct application area.
Check that the product label explicitly lists sand flies as a target. The general term “pest” does not mean the product is suitable for this target.
Skin, indoor and surface products serve different purposes. Decide whether you need personal protection or pest control in your living space.
Compare the directions specific to the target pest and any stated duration of action. Do not apply one product's instructions to another or assume unverified durations.
Especially when buying online, check the back label for the biocidal product authorisation number, authorisation date, active ingredient and directions for use.
Choose a sand fly solution according to the target and application area.
Compare pest control products across our brands, grouped by solution type. Find the options that suit your needs.
Personal protection for exposed skin.
Sinkov
PROTECTION THAT LEAVES NO ODOUR ON SKIN
≤5 hours
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Sinkov
LONG-LASTING PROTECTION
≤6 hours
VIEW PRODUCT BUY NOWDirect action against flying target pests.
KILLING
THE FASTEST CONTROL*
VIEW PRODUCT*Compared with other Netpa Tüketim products.
Application to surfaces where the target pest is present.
On this page, yakarca and tatarcık are two common Turkish names for the same target: the sand fly. It is a very small fly with a hairy appearance. Not every small flying insect is a sand fly; the species cannot be conclusively identified from size or bite marks alone.
Sand flies appear smaller and hairier; at rest, they may hold their wings open and pointing upwards.
Many species are more active from evening towards dawn.
Females are the ones that feed on blood; a bite may be noticed through itching or an individual skin reaction. A product’s suitability for mosquitoes does not automatically make it suitable for sand flies. Look for sand flies explicitly listed as a target and the product-specific duration on the label.
No. Sand flies must be listed as a target on the label; Comfort is for protection for up to 5 hours, and Sinkov Repellent Aerosol for up to 6 hours.