Types of Beetles in Fredericksburg, VA; Identification of Powder Post & Old House Borer Beetles, Fabric & Pantry Pests
Beetles, (scientific name Coleptera) are the largest order of insects found throughout the world. Approximately 40% of all insect species are beetles and many of these can be found in the United States. Wood destroying beetles such as the powder post beetle and old house borers have been known to cause considerable damage to buildings and other structures. Other types of beetles including the black and varied carpet beetles, the saw toothed beetle, red flour beetle, cigarette beetle and drug store beetle cause damage to fabric and pantry products and are often referred to as fabric and pantry pests. One of the most notorious garden variety beetles is the Japanese beetle which can cause extensive damage to plants and trees. These are the most common species of beetles property owners in Virginia can expect to find in and around their homes and businesses. Many of these pests are cause for concern and require effective pest control and maintenance programs from your pest control specialists.
Types of Wood Boring Beetles; Powder Post & Old House Borers
Powder post beetles are known to infest virtually any item that is made from wood causing serious damage to structures. The larvae of the beetles live in and consume wood that is both dry and seasoned. Adult beetles are approximately 1/8 inch to 1/4 inch long and vary in color between grey and dark brown to black. The larvae of these beetles live in and consume dry, seasoned wood. Powder post beetles are known to infest hardwood furniture, window & door molding and hardwood floors. Beetles prefer conditions with high moisture contents that are poorly ventilated including garages and utility rooms. The infestation can then spread to other areas including walls, rafters and subfloors.
Old House Borers are 5/8 to 1 inch long, and black or brownish in color with shiny spots on their bodies that resemble eyes. They prefer softwoods particularly pine. The larvae feed on the wood before maturing in the spring. The full grown larvae can often be heard boring in the wood, making a rhythmic ticking sound that has been compared to the sound of a mouse gnawing.
Types of Pantry & Fabric Beetles; Varied & Black Carpet Beetles & Saw Toothed, Red Grain, Cigarette & Drug Store Beetles
Fabric and pantry pests can be found in virtually every home or business and while some of these pests are an occasional nuisance others can cause extensive damage to personal items, home furnishings and food products. Some beetles, including the varied carpet beetle and black carpet beetle feed on products containing animal proteins such as wool and leather. These types of pests are more often found in closets and storage areas as opposed to kitchens and pantries. Pantry pests including saw toothed beetles, red grain beetles, cigarette beetles and drug store beetles feed on plant materials including flour, grains, nuts, seeds, cereals, dried flower arrangements and tobacco. Both food and pantry pests are often brought home unintentionally from the store although fabric beetles can also be brought into the home or business from outside sources including trees and shrubs surrounding the property. Once inside fabric beetles can lay eggs on woolen carpets and other fabric items often causing extensive damage. If you find insect activity repeatedly in a closet or pantry, the evidence points to a pest problem.
Wood Boring, Fabric & Pantry Beetle Inspections, Prevention & Control
If you have a problem with wood boring, fabric or pantry beetles in your Virginia home or business, contact the knowledgeable experts at CSI Home & Commercial Services and ask about our comprehensive pest control treatment, prevention and maintenance programs designed to rid your home of unwanted pests.
