Beetle Identification & Prevention

What are beetles?

Beetles are one of the largest groups of insects, with more than 12,000 species living in the United States alone. There is a wide variety in physical features, habits, and food preferences, but all beetles share a few of the same characteristics, including having a pair of hardened, thickened wings that cover and protect their more delicate second pair of wings. The wing covers meet at the middle of the beetle’s body and create a distinctive straight line. Beetles have also all have a well-developed antenna, chewing mouthparts, a pair of compound eyes.

Are beetles dangerous?

Beetles are more destructive than they are dangerous. They don’t pose direct risks to people and aren’t known for spreading diseases to us. Beetles can create large populations within our homes and are annoying and frustrating to deal with.

The biggest concern when it comes to beetles is that the adults or their larvae will feed on and damage things like stored dry goods, upholstered furniture, clothing, blankets, rugs, and other personal items. In large numbers, they can also cause problems in our yards damaging landscaping, flowers, and garden plants.

Why do I have a beetle problem?

Different things will attract different types of beetles to a property; because depending on their species these insects feed on a variety of things. Wood, fabrics, and drygoods are staples of most beetle diets. These pests can find a way into your home on their own, usually after being attracted by your home’s lighting. They will move inside through spaces around windows, doors, and light fixtures. Other times, these pests are accidentally introduced inside of our homes inside things like potted plants, garden plants, or inside boxes.

Where will I find beetles?

Where exactly beetles decide to live depends somewhat on their exact species, but in general, these insects prefer to live outside. Some of their favorite outdoor habitats include flowers, trees, vegetable plants, and fruit trees. A lot also like to live under things that provide them with areas of damp soil, such as woodpiles, trashcans, and plant pots.

When the weather becomes too harsh, light attracts them, or they are looking for a suitable breeding spot, it is common for these pests to move inside of our homes and outbuildings. A few of their favorite indoor hideouts include crawlspaces, pantries, closets and other storage areas.

How do I get rid of beetles?

Beetles are common intruders of our California homes and are difficult to prevent and control. To help you keep beetles out of your home and away from your food and belongings, partner with a professional. At ProServ Pest Management, we will provide you with the effective services needed to maintain a property that is free of pests. Our professionals are continuously trained on the latest pest control products, methods, and technology.

If you would like to learn more about eliminating beetles from your Sacramento area home or business, reach out to us today!

How can I prevent beetles in the future?

In addition to our home pest control and commercial pest control services, protect your property from pests with the following prevention tips:

• Keep adult beetles out of your home by sealing any cracks and crevices around windows and doors.
• Make sure open windows and doors have tight-fitting screens in them.
• Replace white outdoor bulbs with LED bulbs; they are less attractive to beetles and other insects.
• Regularly vacuum and dust your home.
• Store fabric items made from natural fibers in pest-proof storage containers instead of cardboard boxes.
• Remove dry goods from their original containers and place them in plastic, metal, or glass containers with tight-fitting lids.