What Do Fruit Flies Look Like?
Fruit flies, also known as vinegar flies, are brown and yellow with red eyes. Males have black spots on their wings, making it easy to distinguish them from females. An adult fruit fly averages around an eighth of an inch long. Larvae look like whitish-yellow worms, and they grow into oval-shaped pupae.
How Can I Tell if I Have a Fruit Fly Problem?
There are several telltale signs of a fruit fly infestation, which include:
- Visible Maggots – You may be able to see worm-like insects or tiny tubes protruding from the surface of fruit.
- Soft Spots – Larvae eat fruit from the inside out, resulting in spongy or damaged surfaces.
- Swarms – Large groups of fruit flies appear indoors and outdoors, particularly near trash cans, drains, and dumpsters.
How Do Fruit Flies Get Inside Homes and Businesses?
Food, moisture, and light attract fruit flies, leaving most homes vulnerable. Easy entry points include unsealed cracks and crevices as well as open doors and windows. You might even unknowingly carry them into your kitchen on vegetables or fruit.
Unfortunately, fruit flies are a common problem for restaurants, supermarkets, and hotels as well. These pests can cause costly waste by contaminating products. They are also a nuisance when they gather around drains, garbage, and prep stations.
Are Fruit Flies Dangerous?
Fruit flies aren’t venomous, and they don’t sting or bite, so they are relatively harmless to humans. However, this pest does spread sour rot bacteria, speeding up decay. The presence of fruit flies may also create the appearance of uncleanliness and drive away customers.
How Can I Prevent Fruit Fly Infestations?
A few simple steps help keep fruit flies at bay. Store groceries in the refrigerator and avoid leaving produce out on the counter. Cover your trash, take food scraps outside right away, and rinse jars before discarding them. If you have an issue with fruit flies, contact Waltham Pest Services to speak to a professional today.