There are few things more annoying than having a fly buzz around your head while trying to focus on something. If you have ever had a fruit fly infestation inside your Western Massachusetts home, you know exactly what we are talking about. These tiny invasive bugs seem to appear out of thin air and are universally hated by homeowners. If you suspect your home has a fruit fly infestation, here are some things to consider and one helpful tip to get these pests out fast.
Where Fruit Flies Come From
There was a time when people believed that flies materialized from thin air. This theory has been long disproven. Now we know that flies come from tiny eggs. Fruit flies, in particular, lay their eggs on pieces of over-ripened and fermenting fruits and vegetables. A single female will lay about 500 eggs in her life. Considering that these pests live for about a week, that is a lot of potential for population growth!
Although sometimes found out in nature, fruit flies mainly infest homes, businesses, and other places where humans are found. To get around, fruit flies lay their eggs on fruits, vegetables, and other organic items. These eggs are tiny and often missed by homeowners until it is too late.
Are Fruit Flies Dangerous?
Fruit flies are by no means the most dangerous pests in our area. This does not mean, however, that they do not pose health risks. The biggest threat fruit flies pose to homeowners is with the bacteria they may pick up and carry. Some common diseases you might contract from fruit flies are salmonella, E. coli, and listeria. People pick up these harmful illnesses from surfaces fruit flies crawl over and from food contaminated by these pests. To avoid sickness in your own home, be careful where you leave leftover food and wash down surfaces regularly.
How To Prevent Fruit Flies
To prevent fruit flies from invading your home and then breeding, you have to limit their access to breeding grounds and be vigilant not to bring them indoors. This is done in a few different ways. Here are some great places to start.
- Avoid purchasing fruits and vegetables that look like they may be overripe or rotting.
- Empty your trash can regularly and make sure it has a tight-fitting, pest-proof lid.
- Do not leave fruit or vegetables out on countertops unless they are covered.
- Protect your recycling bin with a liner and clean it regularly of residuals like dried fruit juice and soda.
- Clean all your dishes and wipe down your sink every single day.
- Keep your home clean and pick up food messes and drink spills as they occur.
- Address moisture problems inside your home. This includes fixing leaky piping and fixtures, using a dehumidifier, and eliminating sources of water buildup.
One Easy Way To Remove Fruit Flies From Your Home
Dealing with fruit flies can sometimes feel like a nightmare. If you are at your wit’s end trying to remove these pests from your home and need them gone now, turn to the professionals at American Pest Solutions. We offer quick and effective services to eliminate these pests. We also offer long-term service options for various area pests, including cockroaches, flies, and beetles. Whatever your home pest control needs are, we have the resources to get the job done right.
Call us today to discuss your options with one of our educated service representatives. They will help you find a solution to your pest problems and schedule an appointment for your Western Massachusetts home.