Fruit Fly vs Drain Fly
A fly infestation in your home or place of business is annoying as well as unsightly. Some species hang out around laundry rooms and bathrooms, while others hover around the produce on your counter. Before you can deal with the problem, you’ll need to know which type of pest is in the building. Learning the difference between a drain fly and a fruit fly is the first step toward control.
Physical Features
While visually distinct, both pests are tiny at about one-eighth of an inch long. A drain fly, also known as a sewer fly, has a moth-like appearance with fuzzy wings, antennae, and black or brown coloring. A fruit fly has red eyes and a body that can range from brown to yellow with dark stripes or spots.
Fruit fly
Habitat
Found around food processing equipment and dishwasher drains, fruit flies like rotting kitchen scraps. The insects lay eggs in overripe fruit and vegetables left on counters, so their larvae have plenty to eat when they hatch. Drain flies breed in the decayed organic material in drains, sewer outlets, and garbage cans for the same reason.
Problems with Fruit Flies and Drain Flies
Since rot and sewage serve as breeding grounds for the insects, fruit flies and drain flies can transfer bacteria to the food and surfaces they touch. Also, when large populations of sewer flies die, their decaying bodies generate pathogens that may trigger asthma.
Preventing Fruit Flies and Drain Flies
Installing insect-proof window screens, repairing wall and foundation cracks, and cleaning regularly goes a long way to prevent fly infestations. Storing vegetables properly and disposing of overripe produce removes food sources for fruit flies. Thoroughly sanitizing drains and pipes also help keep sewer flies at bay.
In some cases, even the best preventative measures aren’t enough. Flies can be difficult to remove as they often have multiple breeding sites. If you have a fruit fly or drain fly issue, contact Western Pest Services and speak with an expert.