We’re all familiar with the common housefly. They can be found buzzing through homes across the country, all summer long. However, in the late summer and early fall, a different iteration of fly emerges: the fruit fly.
Fruit flies feed on fermenting or rotting fruits and vegetables, so it makes sense that when those are in season, fruit flies are also producing their highest numbers. Fortunately, while controlling fruit flies may seem like a losing battle, with a reliable pest control specialist by your side, you don’t need to live with them all summer long. McCall Service is no stranger to the fruit fly; let us help you identify and overcome this notoriously persistent pest.
What Do Fruit Flies Look Like?
Fruit flies can be distinguished by their bright red eyes and lightly-colored bodies, which are usually yellowish tan. They collect anywhere that produce might be fermenting or rotting, such as your disposal, sink drain, trash cans, garden, and even under refrigerators and other kitchen appliances.
Are Fruit Flies Harmful?
Yes, fruit flies are harmful. They might not pose a direct threat like a wasp might with its stinger, but fruit flies are prominent carriers of various diseases and bacteria, including E. coli. Whenever they touch produce, silverware, a toothbrush, or anything else that might be in contact with something you ingest, you run the risk of contracting these fruit fly-carried diseases.
How to Prevent Fruit Flies
The first step in preventing fruit flies is to stop them from entering your home. Fruit flies invade Florida houses through spaces around windows and doors and even through screens. They can also hitch a ride on any produce that you bring in from your own garden or the local market.
Once fruit flies have breached your front door, they can reproduce in 12 – 24 hours and take over your entire kitchen and home. Don’t despair—there are some easy things you can do in and around your home to control these tiny persistent invaders, such as:
- Emptying indoor garbage bins into outdoor bins with locking lids until trash pick-up day
- Storing outdoor trash cans a distance away from the outside of your home
- Keeping your sink tidy by cleaning off and washing all dishes daily
- Cleaning up spills and crumbs quickly
- Storing fruits and vegetables in the refrigerator instead of on your counters
- Removing any fruit or vegetables that have fallen on the ground in your garden
- Inspecting and throwing away overripe or decaying fruits and vegetables
The Power of Pest Control Professionals
Fruit flies may be a part of summer, but you don’t need to resign yourself to their constant presence in your home. If you still can’t prevent fruit flies after taking all the necessary precautions, the professionals at McCall Service can help. Our technicians can perform an inspection and provide services to control fruit flies and other common household pests before things get out of hand. For more information about fruit flies and our other pest control services, contact McCall Service today!
