Fruit flies are lingering longer than usual across UK homes this year, with many kitchens now swarmed, but there are some things you can do to keep the pests at bay.
A common sight in UK homes during the summer months, fruit flies are sticking around a little longer this year. Brits across the country are spotting the insects in increasing quantities with some kitchens now plagued by the invaders.
On a recent episode of The Monday Club podcast, host Chris Ward shared his own experience, saying: “I’ve got three fruit fly traps in my kitchen, and they’re all full with fruit flies. Where are they all coming from?”
The unexpected invasion is due to the mild weather, says Dr Luke Tilley, an Entomologist and Fellow of the Royal Entomological Society.
He told the Daily Mail: “Fruit flies are attracted to warm, humid conditions, particularly around drains, sinks and kitchens. They lay their eggs in moist, organic material, which is why compost caddies and fruit bowls are common hotspots.”
But don’t worry if your kitchen has turned into a hotspot for these pests, there are several simple ways to stop an infestation in its tracks.
Warmer weather speeds up the breeding cycle of fruit flies ( Drosophila melanogaster ), helping them reproduce at a much faster rate.
After a clip from The Monday Club podcast went viral on TikTok, countless Brits shared their own struggles with the insects this autumn.
One said: “I don’t remember them 20 years ago now everyone has them. What’s going on?” While another added: “Ugh we’re inundated this year. We don’t have any fruit out anymore but they still come.”
What can you do to stop the unwanted visitors?
Firstly, it is important to put all food away properly, as contrary to popular belief, it is not just fruit that the pests like. They also enjoy s enjoy munching on white bread, vegetables, fermented products (including beer and wine), and yoghurts and other cultured foods.
consumer champion, Which?, warn people to “Store these foods where fruit flies can’t get to them, such as in a fridge, sealed container or bread bin, and wipe away spills and drips on the sides and tops of jars and bottles that might attract them,”
Recycling bins also need to be properly emptied and cleaned.
Which? also say: “Dirty bottles and jars or containers from last night’s takeaway are a magnet for fruit flies. They don’t need to be squeaky clean, so a quick rinse should do the trick.”
Pet food is also a big problem when it comes to keeping the pests at bay. Which? added: “Leftover food lingering in a pet bowl can attract fruit flies, so clear away any that hasn’t been eaten and wash the bowl out with boiling water before putting the next meal in.
“A fruit fly infestation could also start in the cage of your rabbit, guinea pig or any other small animal that feasts on fruit and veg.”
A homemade trap could be a final solution if all else fails. Dr Tilley suggested: “Place a bowl of apple cider vinegar with a drop of washing-up liquid nearby to trap adults.”
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