Plant & Pest Diagnostics

Drugstore beetle (Stegobium paniceum)

The Drugstore beetle is found throughout the world but it is more often encountered in temperate regions. It is best known as a pantry pest and it is reported to feed on any household food or spice, as well as wool, hair, leather, horn and, as the common name indicates, it is known to infest dry pharmaceutical drugs. Drugstore beetles have very strong jaws which allows them to chew through wooden objects, books, tin or aluminum foil, and even lead. If this beetle is infesting your pantry, the best method of control is to locate the source of the infestation and discard all infested food items. Begin with packages that have been in the cupboard the longest and check all opened packages of flour products, dried fruits, nuts, spices and even dog food and birdseed. If any of the beetles are found in food products then the next step is to thoroughly scrub cupboards and kitchen area with strong detergent.

If no infestation can be found in the kitchen area, check woolens, leather products, stuffed animals, carpet edges and even heating ducts. These beetles can persist in wall cavities and other hidden areas if there is sufficient organic material present to sustain the beetles. Drugstore beetles may also enter the home in the fall seeking a nice protected spot to spend the winter. If this is the case, none of the above control measures will work. Spraying along the baseboards with a residual insecticide registered for indoor use (like Ortho Home Pest Defense or Bayer Advanced Home) may help to reduce their numbers. The drugstore beetle requires about two months to complete its life cycle.

Be sure to read and follow all the instructions and safety precautions found on the pesticide label before using any pesticide.