Small flies slip into homes looking for a place to breed and something to eat. The quicker you identify an infestation, the easier it will be to get rid of these pests. Small flies may try to be sneaky, but they often leave behind clues that can alert you to a problem. Check out a few signs that small flies have moved into your home.
1. Spotting Adults Flies
The most obvious sign of an infestation is spotting adult flies. You’ll find these flies in different areas, depending on the species. Fruit flies are often seen near fruit, vegetables, and trash bins. Drain flies hang out near sink drains and shower drains. Phorid flies are found close to recycling bins, trash cans, rotting food, and a chronic moisture problem like a drain leak. You can find fungus gnats near plants and windows. It’s important to know where the flies are coming from since your treatment method will change with each species.
2. Spotting Larvae
While it’s easiest to spot adult small flies, you may also notice the larvae. Small fly larvae have a worm-like appearance. Fruit flies lay eggs in produce, so larvae will be most noticeable when you cut open the fruit. Drain fly larvae live in the biofilm found in drains, but it can be tricky to see these pests. Like drain fly larvae, fungus gnat larvae can be difficult to spot. After eggs hatch, the larvae burrow deep into the soil.
3. Damage to Plants
Fungus gnats can cause problems for your plants. When infestations are large, fungus gnat larvae are known to chew on plant roots. Their feeding can cause stunted plant growth, yellowing of leaves, and wilting. If you notice changes in your plant’s health as well as flies nearby, fungus gnats could be responsible. Though fungus gnats can bug most plants, geraniums, carnations, and African violets are often targeted.
4. Damage to Fruit & Vegetables
If fruit flies have invaded, your produce may provide a warning sign. When fruit flies lay eggs on overripe produce, they puncture the skin. The presence of larvae can lead to bruising and blemishes. Larvae also feed on produce from the inside out. You’re likely to notice damage when you cut open the produce. Fruit flies aren’t picky and will target a variety of fruit and vegetables.
When flies and other pests invade, it’s always best to act quickly. Knowing what to look for will make it easier to identify and eliminate an infestation. If you’re dealing with small flies, we want to help! Check out our Maggie’s Farm Simply Effective™ Pest Control products for a more environmentally and family-friendly solution.