As a common pantry pest for homes and businesses, confused flour beetles are among the worst pests causing massive economic destruction for stored products. To identify confused flour beetles, look for:
- A shiny, reddish-brown body that is oval-shaped and flattened
- 1/8th of an inch in size
- Antennae that widen at the base of the head
- Wings with rigid covers
Although confused flour beetles have wings, they don’t fly, so; if you see a pest that is behaving like a confused flour beetle but is flying, you know it is another type of pantry pest.
You should know the facts about confused flour beetles as a Plano, Texas resident. We will tell you how these pests infest, how to prevent them, and what to do if you do have a confused flour beetle infestation.
Confused Flour Beetles And Product Infestation
This might be the most difficult thing you will need to read about this pest, but you need to know this about confused flour beetles. Okay, here it is: this pest usually infests a home by coming in through store-bought products that are already infested with eggs or larvae. Yes, we know your trust in processed foods has been broken, but this is the unfortunate truth of confused flour beetles as females lay their eggs in flour and other staple pantry products.
Confused flour beetles live in large populations, causing agriculture and food storage problems throughout the country by contaminating food with their saliva, shed skins and excrement. Signs of a confused flour beetle infestation include:
- Adult confused flour beetles at the top or throughout a product
- Foods with an unpleasant, moldy odor and taste
- Products are discolored
Something else that probably goes without saying is any infested products should be disposed of immediately so your family is safe and healthy. Luckily, you can implement several prevention tips to guard yourself and your family against this dreadful pest.
Confused Flour Beetles And Prevention
Prevention is vital when it comes to confused flour beetles. If you can keep them from entering your home, you will save yourself a lot of stress and money. Here are some expert-recommended prevention tips for this pest:
- Always check stored products for damage before purchasing
- Transfer and store dry goods into clear plastic or glass containers with airtight lids
- Avoid purchasing dry goods from bulk bins
- Vacuum for crumbs regularly, making sure to clean out your pantry as well
- Keep the areas where you store food clear of crumbs and other food debris
Due to the nature of this pest, prevention is not 100% guaranteed. However, your best chance against this pest is with professional help.
Confused Flour Beetles And Professional Pest Control
The most effective way to get rid of a confused flour beetle infestation is with professional assistance. If you live in Plano, Texas, and are worried about confused flour beetles, you should contact All-Safe Pest & Termite experts.
This pest is frustrating which is why you shouldn’t have to deal with an infestation alone. Let All-Safe Pest & Termite help you rid of a currently confused flour beetle problem and prevent future ones from happening by implementing ongoing pest prevention. Noting beats the peace of mind when it comes to pest control, and with our team of trained technicians, we guarantee it.
Don’t wait! Reach out to us today and get started fulfilling all your home pest control needs while maintaining your budget with one of our customizable pest control plans.