Weevils are a type of small beetle that is commonly found in homes and food storage areas. They are known for their distinctive long snouts and ability to infest and damage various types of crops, grains, and stored foods. Do weevils bite? Most of them do not bite. They use their mouth to feed on plants and food products in food storage areas of the home.
Let’s learn more about weevils.
What Are Weevils?
Weevils are a family of beetles known as Curculionidae. They are also characterized by their elongated snouts or rostrums, which they use to pierce plant tissues for feeding and oviposition (egg-laying). Weevils are usually small in size, ranging from 2 to 12 millimeters in length, although some species can grow larger.
Do Weevils Bite?
Contrary to popular belief, most weevils do not bite humans or animals. Their mouthparts are specifically adapted for feeding on plants and stored food products, such as grains, seeds, nuts, and cereals. However, some larger species of weevils may be capable of delivering a pinch-like bite if they feel threatened or cornered.
What Do Weevils Eat?
Weevils are primarily herbivorous insects that feed on the reproductive parts of plants, including leaves, stems, flowers, and fruits. In addition, many species of weevils are notorious pests of stored grain products, where they lay their eggs and develop larvae that feed on the grains. Common types of stored food weevils include rice weevils, granary weevils, and maize weevils.
What Are the Types of Weevils?
There are over 60,000 known species of weevils worldwide, making them one of the largest families of beetles. These species vary in appearance, behavior, and preferred habitats. Also, some notable types of weevils include the boll weevil, apple blossom weevil, acorn weevil, and black vine weevil.
How Do Weevils End Up in Homes?
Weevils are found in various parts of the world, from tropical regions to temperate climates. They can be introduced into homes and buildings through infested food products, especially grains and packaged goods. Additionally, weevils are efficient hitchhikers and can also enter through small openings, cracks, or gaps in the building structure.
Signs You Have Weevils
There are several signs that indicate a weevil infestation in your home or pantry. These include finding small holes or channels in stored food products, discovering adult weevils crawling or flying around, uncovering larvae or pupae in food packages, and noticing an unpleasant odor or taste in contaminated foods.
Other Recommended Maintenance
Now that you know about weevils, let’s take a look at a few other areas of recommended maintenance. One of those is termites. It is important to know what causes you to have them in or near your home. Moisture, wood, and warmth attract termites to building structures but you can prevent them. This can be done by having regular termite inspections and sealing up cracks in the exterior.
Another is what fleas look like. They have small flat bodies, long legs, and hard plates to protect them. If you want to see if they are in your home, check bedding, carpets, and furniture.
Lastly, drain flies are a nuisance. Unfortunately, bleach does not kill them and can damage your pipes. A better way is with baking soda, vinegar, and salt.
When Do I Call a Professional?
In most cases, weevil infestations can be effectively controlled and managed using proper sanitation practices, regular cleaning, and proper storage techniques. However, if the infestation is extensive, persistent, or causing significant damage to stored goods, it may be necessary to seek Inside Out Pest Control Services. A professional can assess the situation, identify the species of weevils involved, and implement targeted treatment strategies.
Conclusion
Weevils are common pests that can cause significant damage to crops, plants, and stored food products. Also by understanding their behavior, lifecycle, and preferred habitats, you can take appropriate measures to prevent and control infestations. Additionally, regular inspection, cleanliness, and proper storage practices can help minimize the risk of weevil problems. Reach out to Inside and Out Pest Services in Jacksonville, FL, and surrounding areas to get your pest inspection done today.