Flies
(Fruit Flies)

What are fruit flies?

Fruit flies are a tiny kind of fly that are often found hovering around your pantry or kitchen. 

What do fruit flies look like?

You’re likely to see two kinds of fruit flies in New England, the red eyed fruit fly and the black-eyed fruit fly;

  • Red eyed fruit flies, also commonly called “gnats” just ⅛” long, yellow and brown in color, with round, red eyes. 
  • Black eyed fruit flies, sometimes called dark eyed fruit flies,  are just ⅛” long, dark brown and black in color, with round, black eyes. 

Are fruit flies dangerous?

Yes. Fruit flies are carriers of pathogens and can easily contaminate food with dangerous diseases. 

Do fruit flies bite?

No, fruit flies do not bite. 

Where did the fruit flies come from?

Fruit flies are attracted to food items that are left out, like fruits and vegetables, juice cups, vinegar, and other common kitchen food items. They also hover near damp mops and trash cans. Outside, fruit flies are commonly found around garbage sources. They can be a year-round problem but are most common in summer and fall. They can breed inside drains where they reproduce rapidly and in huge numbers.

What are the signs of a fruit flies infestation?

A fruit fly infestation is very clear. You’ll see groups of fruit flies on food left on the counter, in your pantry, and near your garbage and kitchen drains. 

How do I get rid of fruit flies?

Getting rid of fruit flies can be a challenge, especially if they’re breeding in your drains. Call Debug and we’ll come out and help you identify the specific fruit fly in your kitchen and then find the best way to eliminate them from your home or business. 

Can I do anything to prevent fruit flies?

The best way to keep fruit flies under control is through cleanliness. During an inspection, your Debug technician will locate the places that fruit flies are breeding and feeding. Cleaning-up these spaces is good practice for keeping fruit flies away. Fruit fly detection traps are a good way to make an early detection of a fruit fly problem before it gets out of hand. Your Debug technician can help you find the best method for early detection. 

Debug can identify and help get rid of pests from your home with our pest control and removal services.