The fruit fly gets their name because they are attracted to fruit and sugary, organic materials which serve as a food source and a place to lay their eggs. Even though fruit flies are most active during the fall harvest, they can be pests inside a home throughout the year.

It is extremely difficult to rid a home of the common fruit fly, as they are also capable of breeding in decaying meat, trash bins and large spills of soda or alcohol. Any fruit brought home from the store should be stored in the refrigerator if appropriate.