Drugstore Beetles
Active Seasons
Appearance and Size Facts
- They have a rounded, oval shape and the head is often concealed by the pronotum
- This beetle looks very similar to a Cigarette beetle
- Distinguished by its punctate wing covers (rows of puncture marks)
- Also lack of golden hairs on the body and three-segmented antennae
- Size: Drugstore beetles are quite small, measuring only about 1/10 inch in length
Behavior and Habitat of Drugstore Beetles
Females lay up to 75 eggs in the food or substrate. The larval period ranges from 4 to 20 weeks. Larvae tunnel through the substrate and, when fully grown, build a cocoon and pupate. The larvae are external feeders and are capable of damaging whole grains or seeds, but prefer many different processed foods. Adults emerge in approximately 12 to 18 days and are able to actively crawl and fly. The Drugstore beetle attacks such a wide variety of foods and material that one anonymous quote states it will "eat anything but cast iron." It gets its name from its habit of feeding on prescription drugs. The Drugstore beetle also feeds on flours, dry mixes, breads, cookies, chocolates, and spices.
Signs of Infestation of Drugstore Beetles
Holes in packaging and debris coming out of packages. Adults can be seen flying, but because of their small size, most people misidentify them as small flies. Adults can be found at windows and light fixtures, as they are attracted to light.
Tips for Prevention of Drugstore Beetles
Discard any food that is infested. Vacuum the shelves of all pantries and cabinets where food is stored and store food in sealed containers. Most times, removing the source of the infestation is enough to manage the pest.
Drugstore Beetle Gallery
Latest Pest & Termite Control News
Subterranean Termite Control in West Palm Beach: Sentricon Colony Elimination
Mar 09, 2023—Florida Termites
Here in Palm Beach County and our northern neighbors in the Treasure Coast, including subterranean termite prevention and control as a part of your general home maintenance plan is essential. This is especially true in West Palm Beach, which was named in the “Top 10 Worst Termite...
Read More ›
New Year Pest Control Resolutions for Your South Florida Home
Dec 19, 2022—Rodents, Pest Control, Rodents
A new year means new pests are trying to call your South Florida house their home. This year, along with new year’s resolutions to improve your health, finances, attitude, and whatever other things you want to change in your life, make this year the year you keep your South Florida home...
Read More ›
Expert Advice on Protecting Your Home and Lawn from Pests this Winter
Dec 08, 2022—Florida Lawn Care
Living in South Florida means rodents, ants, and other pests don't take the winters off! Meanwhile, your lawn needs less watering and mowing during the winter months and is susceptible to various diseases such as brown patch fungus. Your lawn in winter While we’re outdoors, let’s talk...
Read More ›
