Flying Pest

Fruit Fly Elimination

Tiny flies that breed in organic matter, ripe fruits, and moist areas throughout Chicagoland homes and businesses.

Size

1/8 inch long (3mm)

Color

Yellow-brown with red eyes

Habitat

Ripe fruit & organic matter

Life Cycle

7-10 days complete

Male common fruit fly (Drosophila Melanogaster) - about 2 mm long - sitting on a blade of grass with green foliage background
24hrs
Reproduction

Fruit Fly Identification

Recognize fruit flies quickly to prevent rapid population growth in your Chicagoland property.

Physical Features

  • Very small - 1/8 inch (3mm) long
  • Yellow to yellowish-brown body
  • Distinctive bright red eyes
  • Clear wings with visible veins
  • Short, stubby antennae

Life Cycle

  • Complete lifecycle in 7-10 days
  • Females lay 400-500 eggs
  • Eggs hatch within 24-30 hours
  • Larvae feed for 5-6 days
  • Rapid population growth

Infestation Signs

  • Small flies around fruit bowls
  • Flies near garbage cans
  • Hovering around drains
  • Clouds of tiny flies when disturbed
  • Sweet, fermented odors

Prevention Strategies

Fruit & Food Storage

  • • Store ripe fruit in refrigerator
  • • Dispose of overripe fruit immediately
  • • Clean fruit before storage
  • • Use sealed containers for produce
  • • Check fruit regularly for spoilage

Kitchen Sanitation

  • • Clean drains regularly with hot water
  • • Wipe down counters after food prep
  • • Empty trash frequently
  • • Clean up spills immediately
  • • Wash dishes promptly

DIY Solutions

Apple Cider Vinegar Trap

  1. 1. Fill bowl with apple cider vinegar
  2. 2. Add few drops of dish soap
  3. 3. Cover with plastic wrap
  4. 4. Poke small holes in plastic
  5. 5. Place near breeding areas

Wine/Beer Trap

  1. 1. Leave small amount in bottle
  2. 2. Create paper funnel for neck
  3. 3. Flies enter but can't escape
  4. 4. Replace liquid when full

Note: DIY methods may not eliminate breeding sources. For severe infestations, professional treatment is recommended.

Professional Fruit Fly Elimination

Our experts locate and eliminate breeding sources, providing lasting fruit fly control for your Chicagoland property.

Source Location

We find all breeding sites including hidden ones

Targeted Treatment

Professional-grade treatments and baits

Prevention Plan

Custom prevention strategies for your property