When small beetles appear in homes, concerns about bites or damage often arise. Understanding these tiny household inhabitants can alleviate anxiety and clarify their behavior and impact.
Do Drugstore Beetles Bite?
Drugstore beetles, scientifically known as Stegobium paniceum, do not bite humans. Their mouthparts are designed for chewing through a wide array of dried goods, not for piercing skin or drawing blood. Any perceived “bites” are likely due to other insects present in the environment or unrelated skin irritations.
These beetles do not transmit diseases or pose a direct health risk. Their primary concern is the contamination and destruction of food products and other stored items, making them nuisance pests.
Identifying Drugstore Beetles
Drugstore beetles are small, cylindrical insects typically measuring between 2.25 and 3.5 millimeters in length, which is roughly 1/10 to 1/8 of an inch. They have a uniform reddish-brown color, and their bodies are covered with fine hairs. A distinguishing feature is their antennae, which end in a three-segmented club.
Their wing covers, called elytra, have longitudinal rows of pits, giving them a striated or lined appearance. This helps differentiate them from similar insects like the cigarette beetle, which has smooth elytra and serrated antennae. They are common in warmer climates but found worldwide, especially in heated structures. Attracted to light, they are often seen near windows or light sources and can fly.
These beetles have a broad diet, consuming almost anything except cast iron. They infest a wide variety of dried plant and animal products, including grains, flour, pasta, cereals, spices, pet food, and dried flowers. Their name comes from their historical tendency to infest medicinal herbs and pharmaceuticals. Beyond food, they can bore into books, leather, wool, and even some packaging materials like plastic and foil.
Managing Drugstore Beetle Infestations
Managing drugstore beetle infestations begins with a thorough inspection to locate the source. These beetles often enter homes through infested groceries or dry goods. Removing and discarding all infested items is a crucial first step.
After discarding infested materials, clean the affected areas meticulously. Vacuuming shelves, cracks, and crevices removes any remaining beetles, larvae, eggs, and food debris. Wiping down surfaces with soap and water or a vinegar solution aids sanitation. For items that cannot be discarded, such as valuable artifacts, freezing at 0°F (-18°C) for at least four days, or heating to 140°F (60°C) for one hour, eliminates all life stages.
Preventing future infestations relies on proper food storage practices. All dry goods, including flour, cereals, spices, and pet food, should be stored in airtight containers made of glass, metal, or thick plastic. Regularly checking new purchases for signs of damage or infestation before bringing them into the home can also help prevent their introduction. Rotating food stock, using older items first, and avoiding excessive bulk buying reduces the chance of food sitting long enough to become infested.
Sealing cracks and crevices in pantries and walls can also limit potential entry points. While pheromone traps can be useful for monitoring beetle activity, they are not effective for complete eradication. In severe or persistent cases, consulting with a pest control professional may be the most effective solution.