| Scientific name | Drosophila melanogaster |
|---|---|
| Group | Flies & Mosquitoes |
| Size | 2–4 mm (up to about 0.16 in) |
| Colors | Tan, Brown and Red |
| Legs | 6 legs |
| Wings | Yes |
| Where found | Kitchen |
| Most active | Spring, Summer and Fall |
| Bites | No |
| Stings | No |
| Risk level | Nuisance |
How to identify it
The fruit fly is a tiny member of the flies & mosquitoes group. Only one pair of flying wings; the hind pair is reduced to tiny knobs. Check for these three features:
- Very small tan body with bright red eyes
- Slow, hovering flight around produce
- Gathers around fermenting fruit, wine and vinegar
About this bug
A tiny, tan fly with bright red eyes that hovers over ripe fruit, drains, trash and spilled drinks. It can go from egg to adult in about a week.
You'll usually find fruit flies in the kitchen. They are most active in spring, summer and fall.
Is it dangerous?
Fruit flies don't bite; they can carry bacteria from trash onto food.
Our rating: Nuisance, meaning it is a nuisance pest but not a health threat to most people.
When you'll see fruit flies
Fruit Flies are most active in spring, summer and fall. In spring, overwintering adults become active and many species lay their first eggs. Summer heat speeds up development, so populations can grow quickly. In fall, many bugs look for shelter, and some move toward or into buildings.
Typical places to check: kitchen.
About flies & mosquitoes
The fruit fly is one of the flies & mosquitoes. Flies have only one pair of working wings; the second pair is reduced to small balancing knobs called halteres. They go through complete metamorphosis, and the larvae, called maggots, need moist organic material such as garbage, soil, drain film or standing water.
Fly problems are almost always breeding-site problems. Finding and removing the moist material where larvae develop works far better than swatting adults.
What to do about it
- Refrigerate or toss overripe fruit and rinse recyclables
- Set a trap with apple cider vinegar and a drop of dish soap
- Scrub drains and trash cans to remove breeding film
Read the full guide: how to get rid of fruit flies.
Bugs that look similar
Color: Fruit Flies are tan, brown and red; drain flies are gray and black.
Color: Fruit Flies are tan, brown and red; fungus gnats are black and gray.
Frequently asked questions
What does a fruit fly look like?
Very small tan body with bright red eyes. Adults measure 2–4 mm (up to about 0.16 in).
Does the fruit fly bite or sting?
It does not bite. It does not sting. Fruit flies don't bite; they can carry bacteria from trash onto food.
Where do fruit flies live?
Fruit Flies live in the kitchen.
When are fruit flies most active?
Mostly in spring, summer and fall.