Beetles

Parts of this information was taken from the "Entomological Expert Witness" website: http://insectexpertphd.com/beetles.aspx

Wood Destroying Beetles and Carpet Beetles

In the western states, subareas are the most prone to attack. California, Oregon and Washington are considered to be susceptible to a greater level of wood boring beetle infestations than is currently appreciated. As a consequence further emphasis should be placed on examination of crawl spaces in homes of western states, particularly those in close proximity to the ocean.

As our population increases along with the demand for lumber there has been a corresponding increase in the use of salvaged, second growth and imported timber. This activity has resulted in the development of more problems from wood destroying insects. Salvaged timber typically has more insect problems, fire and fungal damage and other pest infestations. When it is used in structures as low-grade lumber new challenges to the pest control operator develop.

Second growth timber is a result of replanting deforested areas and typically results in lumber, which is unusually palatable to these organisms partially due to high starch content. The heavy importation of timber and products such as antiques, bamboo furniture, cabinet facings and other items undoubtedly results in new and challenging species of wood destroying beetles.

Wood boring beetles fall into 2 broad categories. Namely those that reinfest wood and wood products and those that do not. Generally speaking beetles that do not reifest wood require bark to be present for egg laying. Those that reinfest can lay their eggs on wood with or without bark.

Carpet Beetles

Carpet Beetles are about 2-3 milimeters long and can have varying color patterns. This small beetle can do damage to your carpets, woolen goods, skins, furs, leather book bindings, and hair and silk items. They are generally found in carpeted homes around baseboards or just randomly crawling on walls. Controlling them can be difficult and requires a knowledgable professional to provide the correct treatment.

Leaf Beetle

Leaf Beetles are about 2-3 milimeters long and can have varying color patterns. This small beetle can do damage to your carpets, woolen goods, skins, furs, leather book bindings, and hair and silk items. They are generally found in carpeted homes around baseboards or just randomly crawling on walls. Controlling them can be difficult and requires a knowledgable professional to provide the correct treatment.

Sawtoothed Grain Beetles

The Sawtoothed Grain Beetle is about 2.5 to 3 mm long and has a flat body. There are six tiny projections on each side, just behind the head. These projections give the beetle its name. It helps to use a magnifying glass to see them. It is a major pest of stored food products in homes and commercial facilities.

Behavior, Diet & Habits

The sawtoothed grain beetle is not attracted to light and it does not fly. It does not infest whole grain. Its flat body allows it to enter tiny cracks and infest broken kernels. It can also penetrate packages in homes and stores. It feeds on cereal, flour, pet food and birdseeds. It also feeds on nuts, spices, drugs, chocolate and tobacco.

Signs of a Sawtoothed Grain Beetle Infestation

Homeowners with sawtoothed grain beetles usually detect their presence when they find small beetles in pantry products or crawling on surfaces like counters or shelves.

More Information

Inspection and cleaning are important steps in eliminating sawtoothed grain beetles. Empty cabinets and pantries and check every package. Throw away infested food in sealed plastic bags. This will help to contain them until the garbage is picked up. Vacuum the empty closets, shelves and baseboards to remove any insects and food particles. Store new food products in tightly sealed glass or plastic containers.

Check areas where pet food and birdseed are stored. An infestation in the kitchen could have come from the birdseed in the storeroom or the pet food in the garage. Store pet food in containers with a lid.

Insecticide application is the final step. The application should be made into cracks and crevices. The object is to eliminate any insects that might be hiding. To avoid misapplication, call the local pest control professional.