Beetles form the largest group of insects and it follows that they form the bulk of pest species.

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Spider beetles are general scavengers but will attack any stored food products from dog biscuits to quality chocolate confectionery. Their larval stages can bore through paper, cellophane and aluminium wrappers to reach the food source. The adults cannot fly but can move around in search of food sources to lay eggs in. Bird nests and even old rodenticides are quite acceptable breeding grounds. Often a problem may arise in the roof space and the adults follow electric cabling or water pipes throughout the house.

 

Larder beetles require a high protein diet and are found in association with dried rodent or bird bodies that may be located in cavity walls or under flooring. (A recent rodenticide treatment may result in both bluebottle flies and larder beetles.)

 

Carpet Beetle– Yes really there are carpet beetle. It is Related to the larder beetle that attacks furs and woollen fabrics. Carpet under lay may be a hidden source of food.

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Ground beetles are garden inhabitants that accidently enter households in search of prey.

 

Grain weevils are normally a pest on farm stores feeding on barley and wheat. Today they can be found in wild bird food that is becoming more common in our efforts to attract wild life into our gardens. (this has other side effects that will be mentioned later). They also attack dried pasta products of all forms. Rice weevils attack  whole rice grains and as their larvae are white and feeding internally the infestation may not be noticed prior to cooking.

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Wood boring weevil species are very similar to grain weevils but feed on timber already attacked by dry rots. Not a serious pest as they breed slowly but an indicator of wood rots.

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Woodworm beetles are probably the most feared beetle to be encountered. However the adults are only encountered during the summer months as they emerge from their tunnels to seek mates. Active infestations will display powdered wood dust beside the exit holes. Their larval development is quite variable as it depends on quality of wood and ambient temperature conditions. The adults are often found on window sills attracted to outside light. They fly quite readily in warm conditions and can be brought into houses in gathered firewood or infested furniture.

 

Biscuit beetles resemble woodworm adults but are smaller and can be found throughout the year as they feed on any cereal based products.  Often found in forgotten bags of cereals or dog meal.

Plaster beetles are found in damp conditions where they feed on moulds and fungi that develop on plaster walls and damaged wood. Elimination of leaks and dampness will stop the life cycle by removing the conditions and food source. 

Fungus beetles also feed on moulds developing in damp dark conditions.