From summer heat to discarded fruit rinds, this article provides all the answers to your fruit fly questions. Do not spend one more summer surrounded by pesky fruit flies. Grab your fly swatter, and let’s get started!
Three Leading Reasons You See Fruit Flies in the Summer
1. Mating Patterns
One reason you may be seeing more fruit flies in the summer has to do with their mating habits. The mating habits of fruit flies are greatly influenced by the temperature and light cycle, which are both more favorable during the summer months.
As ectothermic insects, fruit flies rely on external sources to regulate their body temperature, and the warmer temperatures of summer provide a more suitable environment for mating. During this time, fruit flies become more active and exhibit increased courtship behaviors, such as wing vibration and pheromone release, which are essential for successful mating.
Additionally, fruit flies have a shorter lifespan than most insects, with an average lifespan of 40-50 days. This means that they have a limited time to mate and reproduce, further incentivizing them to be more active during the summer when the conditions are most favorable.
The longer daylight hours also play a role in their mating habits, as fruit flies are diurnal and require sunlight to regulate their circadian rhythms. Therefore, the combination of warmer temperatures, longer daylight hours, and limited lifespan all contribute to the increased activity and mating habits of fruit flies during the summer months.
2. Fruits and Veggies
Another top reason for summer fruit fly activity has to do with fruits and vegetables. When fruit and veggies are left out for extended periods, fruit flies will start to lay their eggs on the produce, which will eventually hatch into larvae. The larvae will then consume the fruit and veggies, causing them to rot and produce even more food for the fruit flies.
The reason why leaving out fruit and veggies leads to more active fruit flies in the summer is that the insects are attracted to the sweet smell of fermenting produce. As fruit and veggies begin to break down, they produce a variety of volatile compounds, including ethanol, acetic acid, and other organic substances.
These compounds are particularly attractive to fruit flies, which have a highly sensitive sense of smell. As the fruit flies consume the fermenting produce, they become more active and start to multiply at a faster rate.
If you are looking to reduce the presence of fruit flies this summer, ensure that all of your food is stored properly in airtight packaging and do not leave rinds around. Another preventive measure you can try is taking out the trash more frequently, especially if it contains food waste.
3. Unclean Spaces
One thing fruit flies love is unclean spaces. Fruit flies are attracted to the smell of rotting food, so it is essential to keep your kitchen clean and free of food debris. This means wiping down your counters and floors regularly and rinsing any dishes or utensils that have come in contact with food.
You should also be sure to dispose of food waste properly, either by placing it in a sealed container or by taking it outside to your compost bin. Another way to reduce fruit fly activity is by keeping your kitchen free of any standing water.
Fruit flies need moisture to survive, so it is essential to fix any leaky pipes or faucets and to dry out any wet areas in your kitchen. Be sure to empty any pet water dishes regularly and wipe down your sink and countertops after use.
In addition to cleaning your kitchen, you can also use natural remedies to deter fruit flies. For example, you can create a vinegar trap by filling a small dish with apple cider vinegar and a few drops of dish soap. The vinegar attracts the fruit flies, and the dish soap traps them, preventing them from escaping.
Shoo (Fruit) Fly, Don't Bother Me!
It is easy to see all the reasons why fruit flies love summer weather. Their short life spans and mating habits make the summer heat a perfect opportunity for fruit fly activity. Just like you, fruit flies love refreshing fruits, and are always on the hunt for leftover rinds.
To avoid fruit flies, make sure that you are discarding waste properly and keeping spaces clean, and definitely do not leave out old food, especially fruits, and vegetables. With these tips, you are sure to see a reduction in bug activity in your space.
If these facts shocked you, you may be left wondering what other factors are drawing pests into your home. This helpful article outlines ten reasons why your home might be a bug magnet. Check it out to learn more ways to avoid summer pests.
For help avoiding bugs, call the team at Rid-a-Bug. We have years of experience removing pests and helping families!