Hang Pennies in a Bag of Water, Here’s Why
At first glance, a baggie of water with floating pennies might look like a lazy science fair project—or maybe a new rustic art installation. But in certain parts of the South, this oddball setup is a secret weapon in the eternal battle against flies. That’s right: people actually hang these bizarre bags around their porches, doorways, and cookouts like magical anti-fly charms.
The science (or science-ish) theory behind this? Flies have eyes like disco balls—compound and overly sensitive to light. The shiny pennies and refracted light from the water create a confusing optical mess that leaves flies thinking, “Nope!” and zooming away to crash someone else’s BBQ. Is it proven? Ehh, not exactly. But if it works for Aunt Peggy’s porch, who are we to argue?
