DRUG STORE BEETLE

DRUG STORE BEETLE
The Drug Store Beetle has a large shield that protects its head, and a small body, usually less than 1/8th inch in total length. It infests dried food products, spices, wool, and is often incorrectly referred to as a “weevil.” The larvae may also burrow into paper products, especially books. Occasionally they are found in upholstery.

The Drug Store Beetle is considered a pantry pest, but can also spread human tapeworms. They are an intermediate host, and contaminate corn meal and flour when undercooked, which can then spread the tapeworms to humans.

Life Cycle
The female lays eggs among the infested products, and about a week later they hatch. The larva goes through 4-6 instars over a 4-5 month period before becoming a pupa, encased in a silken cocoon. The pupal stage lasts 12-18 days. From 1-4 generations can be produced each year.