As the seasons change, you may start to notice an increase in fruit flies, scientifically known as drosophila melanogaster. There are a few reasons why these bugs make more of an appearance during the cooler months. Many fruits, such as apples, pears, and grapes, start to become ripe and decay faster with the colder temperatures. The fermentation process that happens as the fruits ripen is what fruit flies are primarily attracted to.
With natural daylight decreasing as the winter months approach, the cooling temperatures and darkness can trigger behavioral changes in these insects. Like most other bugs, fruit flies tend to become more active in the fall as they prepare for winter. Most fruit flies are searching for food sources and shelter during this time. Many homes provide an ideal and welcoming environment for fruit flies. Because of these natural factors for increased fruit fly activity, in this article, we will discuss things you can do to prevent fruit flies from entering your home.
Fruit flies main attractant is overripe fruits and vegetables. The best thing you can do to keep fruit flies at bay is to store fruits and vegetables in airtight containers or the refrigerator. This will help eliminate the fly’s food source and make your home less attractive. If you do leave fruits and vegetables on the counter, regularly check them for signs of over-ripeness or rotting.
It can be helpful to keep your home, particularly your kitchen and food storage areas, clean. Regularly taking out your trash and recycling, and keeping your kitchen counters clean from crumbs or spills, can help remove any residue that could attract fruit flies and other pests. You can also greatly benefit from keeping your cupboards and pantries organized and up to date. It is best to discard any old or expired food to help prevent fruit flies from finding this prime food source. Keeping your home clean and organized goes a long way when it comes to pest control.
There are numerous ways that fruit flies can enter your home. Because fruit flies are incredibly small, they can fit through most cracks and gaps throughout your home. If you notice any openings in your doors or windows, consider using weatherstripping to secure these places. It can also be helpful to inspect your fruit and vegetables before bringing them inside the home. Fruit flies often lay their eggs in organic decaying foods. By properly inspecting your food and ensuring they are not overly ripened, you can reduce the chance of carrying larvae into your home.
If you notice fruit flies in your home, consider setting up a fruit fly trap. You can do this by pouring apple cider vinegar or wine in a small bowl, covered with plastic wrap. Once your bowl is securely covered, poke small holes into the plastic wrap with a toothpick or fork. This attracts flies into the bowl and makes it challenging for them to escape. Once you have the fruit flies captured, either throw the bowl away or dispose of the contents quickly in the sink.
If a homemade trap is not sufficient for the fruit fly activity in your home, call your local Insight Pest Solutions. We are always happy to help and want to help make your home a better, pest-free place! You can call us today at (888) 414-1430 for a free quote and more information.
