Fruit Fly Predators

Although there are insects that feed on fruit flies, they are rarely considered as pest control options due to the fact that they also may be viewed as pests. In the small, larval stage, fruit flies are susceptible to becoming victims of ant and beetle larvae.

One of the most common predators of flies, including fruit flies, is the frog. Although frogs eat a diverse diet, they feed on flies as often as they can. The spider is also a common predator of the fruit fly. These arachnids spin their webs as traps for flies. Fruit fly larvae are a possible prey of ants and staphylinid beetles.

Chickens and other fowl may eat fruit fly larvae present on overripe fruits and vegetables and sometimes consume fly pupae found beneath trees. Other common larval and pupal fruit fly predators include predaceous wasps, mites and crickets. However, introducing these species into your home is not a practical solution for a fruit fly infestation. Also, due to the lack of natural predators inside homes, fruit fly populations often grow swiftly. The most effective prevention and eradication methods include locating and eliminating feeding and breeding sites. If fruit fly infestations persist after these measures are taken, contact your local pest control professional to discuss further extermination options.