Fruits flies will be ‘trapped’ if you add washing up liquid to one common ingredient

A Pest Usually Seen in Summer Is Invading Brits’ Kitchens Well into Autumn

It’s a pest that typically appears in summer, but many Brits have been left stunned to find hordes of fruit flies invading their kitchens well into autumn, reports the Daily Mail.

Speaking on a recent episode of The Monday Club podcast, host Chris Ward said, “I’ve got three fruit fly traps in my kitchen, and they’re all full with fruit flies. Where are they all coming from?”

### Expert Blames Mild Weather for the Invasion

According to Dr Luke Tilley, Entomologist and Fellow of the Royal Entomological Society, the mild weather is to blame for the fruit fly invasion.

“Fruit flies are attracted to warm, humid conditions, particularly around drains, sinks and kitchens,” Dr Tilley explained to the Daily Mail. “They lay their eggs in moist, organic material, which is why compost caddies and fruit bowls are common hotspots.”

If your kitchen has turned into a breeding ground for fruit flies, don’t panic. There are several straightforward steps you can take to prevent an infestation in your home.

### Warm Conditions Speed Up Their Breeding Cycle

Fruit flies (Drosophila melanogaster) can be spotted year-round but really flourish in warm weather. Warm conditions shorten their life cycle, causing them to breed more quickly.

Replying to a clip of The Monday Club podcast on TikTok, several Brits shared their experiences with the insects this autumn.

“Never had them before and have them this year. Driving me mental,” one user commented.

Another added, “I don’t remember them 20 years ago. Now everyone has them. What’s going on?”

One vented, “Ugh, we’re inundated this year. We don’t have any fruit out anymore but they still come.”

### Insects Play a Vital Role in Science

While they can be a nuisance, fruit flies play important roles in nature, according to Dr Tilley.

“They help break down rotting fruit, contribute to nutrient cycling, support pollination, and provide food for other animals,” he said.

“These tiny insects have also helped researchers unlock some of the biggest scientific discoveries in cancer, Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s.”

Remarkably, fruit flies share around 60% of our disease-related genes and have contributed to six Nobel Prizes in Medicine.

### Simple Tricks to Banish Unwanted Guests

Fortunately, there are several easy, chemical-free ways to manage fruit flies in your home.

First, make sure you store all the foods they enjoy—not just fruit—properly. Fruit flies also feed on white bread, vegetables, fermented products (including beer and wine), yoghurts, and other cultured foods.

Consumer champion Which? advises, “Store these foods where fruit flies can’t get to them, such as in a fridge, sealed container, or bread bin. Also, wipe away spills and drips on the sides and tops of jars and bottles that might attract them.”

### Recycling Bins Need Regular Cleaning

Next, it’s important to rinse out your recycling.

“Dirty bottles, jars, or containers from last night’s takeaway are a magnet for fruit flies,” Which? warns. “They don’t need to be squeaky clean, so a quick rinse should do the trick.”

### Pet Owners Should Be Cautious About Food Bowls

If you have pets, clean their bowls and cages regularly.

“Leftover food languishing in a pet bowl can attract fruit flies,” Which? adds. “Clear away any uneaten food and wash the bowl with boiling water before the next meal.”

“A fruit fly infestation could also start in cages of rabbits, guinea pigs, or any other small animals that feast on fruit and veg.”

### Homemade Trap Offers a Final Solution

If your house is spick and span and you’re still struggling with fruit flies, try making a homemade trap.

Dr Tilley advises, “Place a bowl of apple cider vinegar with a drop of washing-up liquid nearby to trap adults.”

By following these simple steps, you can keep fruit flies at bay and enjoy a pest-free kitchen well into the autumn.
https://www.express.co.uk/news/uk/2118963/fruits-flies-will-be-trapped