Table of Contents
Why do I keep finding larder beetles in my house?
When an infestation is found in a home, it most likely came from dry dog, cat, or bird food. They also feed on dead animal matter like cluster flies, boxelder bugs, or mice that might be in the walls of homes. Grease resulting from cooking also attracts larder beetles.
What are larder beetles attracted to?
Adult larder beetles are attracted to night-lights or may breed on a small food source such as a dead mouse.
How do you find a larder beetle nest?
Their entry points into buildings are usually cracks, torn window screens, attics, wall fissures and other openings leading indoors. They may also be brought into the house on carry-bags, cardboard boxes or previously contaminated foods. You may notice signs of their presence near food sources.
Why are there larder beetles in my bedroom?
Larder beetles enter homes through open doors or cracks in walls during the late summer and fall to escape cold weather. They overwinter near food sources, particularly in kitchen pantries.
How do I know if I have a larder beetle infestation?
You may notice signs of their presence near food sources. If you find some banana-shaped egg clusters, shed beetle skins or dead larder beetles among your staples and preserves, it’s a pretty good bet that you’ve got an infestation. You might also find signs behind your stove and in the range hood.
What are larder beetles?
Larder beetles were named for their attraction to food pantries (larders) and cured meats. They enter homes in spring through spaces and gaps on the outside of buildings. It is very uncommon for larder beetles to feed on stored food products.
What should I do if I have larder beetles?
Once you have confirmed that you have Larder Beetles, you need to perform an inspection to find out where the Larder Beetles are located and what is attracting them. During the inspection, you will be looking for Larder Beetle activity and infested items.
Do larder beetles lay eggs on dead bugs?
Many of the hibernating insects die, attracting larder beetles which lay eggs on dead insects. The larvae of the larder beetle then feed on the dead insects. The adult larder beetle is dark brown and approximately 1/3 inch in length. The basal halves of the wing covers are densely covered with coarse, pale yellow hairs.
How many times can a larder beetle molt?
Male larder beetles can molt their skin up to five times, while females molt six. Mature larvae travel to locate a good place to pupate. An infestation of larder beetles can happen as quickly as two weeks after the initial hatching. Larder beetles are quite the little pest!