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What do fruit flies look like?
Fruit flies are a small species of flies, with adults measuring only about 1/8 inch in length. They are known for their red eyes, although some may have brownish or black-colored eyes. Their wings are translucent, while their bodies are usually black on top and gray on the underside, appearing tan to the human eye.
Fruit fly larvae are worm-like in appearance and about 1/4 to 3/8 inch long. They are whitish in color, except for the two dark-colored mouth hooks.
What attracts fruit flies?
During spring and summer, fruit flies increase in numbers and reach their peak during the fall harvest season. These small flies are attracted to ripe, decaying, or fermenting food and lay their eggs on them.
They commonly infest garbage, compost piles, and garden areas. However, fruit flies can also become a problem inside homes and businesses, especially when foods that are already infested with fruit flies or eggs are introduced. This may happen with fruits, vegetables, improperly sealed jars, and cans.
Where do fruit flies breed?
In addition to the breeding sites mentioned in the previous section, fruit flies can also breed in drains, garbage disposals, trash cans, mops, cleaning rags, and inside empty cans and bottles found in homes and businesses.
Are fruit flies dangerous?
Fruit flies are primarily nuisance pests. However, they also have the potential to contaminate food with bacteria and other disease-producing organisms. That’s because these small flies pick up bacteria on their bodies and legs as they travel, breed, and feed. Unfortunately, the places they visit aren’t all that sanitary.
How do I get rid of fruit flies?
In order to get rid of a fruit fly infestation, it is necessary to identify all breeding sites and then eliminate or thoroughly clean them. For commercial facilities, treatment may include drain bio-remediation. If you’re not sure where your fruit fly problem is originating from or you’d like professional insight, please contact Pine State Pest Solutions.
How can I prevent a fruit fly infestation?
Want to avoid fruit flies altogether? We recommend the following fruit fly prevention tips:
- Eliminate all sources of attraction.
- Regularly remove trash and place it outside in containers with tight-fitting lids until trash pick-up day.
- Routinely wash and disinfect trash receptacles.
- Rinse out your empty cans and bottles and store them in covered receptacles.
- Repair leaky or drippy fixtures and pipes located in your home or business.
- Wash dishes after every meal; don’t leave them in the sink overnight. Ensure that drains are free of debris.
- Make sure to inspect fruits and vegetables for signs of fruit flies before bringing them home from the grocery store or farmer’s market.
- Store fruits and vegetables in the refrigerator instead of out on counters.
- Pick up fallen fruits or vegetables quickly from garden areas on your property.
- Install, replace, or repair window and door screens
For help getting rid of pests, contact Pine State Pest Solutions
In business since 2011, our locally owned and operated pest control company is passionate about helping Maine residents eliminate and prevent pest problems. For residential pest control and commercial pest management in Auburn, Augusta, or elsewhere in our multi-county service area, reach out today!