Confused Flour Beetle Identification & Prevention

A type of pantry pest, the confused flour beetle, is a common species that invade homes and businesses across North America. Females lay their eggs in flour or other loose food materials.
 
Confused flour beetles are shiny reddish-brown and grow to be about 1/8th of an inch in length. They are often identified by their antennae that widen out from the base of their head. Their wings are covered with ridged wing covers. While winged, confused flour beetles do not fly.
 
Confused flour beetle larvae are yellowish-white in color and have a thin worm-like appearance. Their larvae grow to between ? of an inch and ¼ of an inch in length.

The biggest threat that confused flour beetles pose to people is contaminating our food sources. Their saliva, excrement, and shed skin cause food to become contaminated. In addition, pantry items infested with confused flour beetle larvae will develop a bad odor and taste.

Unable to feed on whole kernels, confused flour beetles focus their attention on things like flour, cereals, cornmeal, seeds, dry pet food, and spices. They often find their way into our homes in products purchased from the store that are already infested with confused flour beetle eggs or their larvae.

Adults may also find their way into your home on their own through spaces around windows and doors after being attracted by outdoor lights.

Confused flour beetles are common invaders of food processing facilities, food storage facilities, grocery stores, restaurants, and our homes. They prefer to feed on dry goods with higher moisture content. Inside our homes, confused flour beetle infestations usually occur in areas of the home where food is stored- kitchens, pantries, basements, and other storage areas. Adults are often seen gathered around outdoor lights and window sills or flying around indoor light fixtures.

Getting help from an Elizabeth City pest control expert is the best way to eliminate confused flour beetles and keep them from returning. At Albemarle Termite & Pest Control, our technicians are highly trained and dedicated to providing affordable, safe, and effective pest control services. We are a local, family-owned home pest control company whose number one priority is putting our customers first and exceeding expectations. For home or business owners looking to eliminate pests from their property once and for all, call Albemarle Termite & Pest Control today!

These pests are not just a nuisance; they pose potential health risks and contaminate our food. Avoid problems with confused flour beetles with the help of the following prevention tips.

• Replace white outdoor lights with yellow lights or LED lights that are less attractive to insects.
• Place weather-stripping around windows and doors.
• Replace damaged screens.
• If possible, don’t purchase dry goods from bulk bins.
• Inspect food packaging for rips or tears before purchasing from the store.
• Remove dry goods from their original containers and place them in containers with air-tight lids.
• Regularly wipe out crumbs from pantries and cabinets.