While the name may remind you of an old episode of the cartoon “Road Runner,” these beetles are a huge nuisance! The weevil is a type of beetle from the Curculionoidea superfamily. There are over 60,000 species are in several families including: Maize Weevils, Rice Weevils, and Granary Weevils. These are among the most destructive pests of grains, seeds, and grain products stored in elevators and bins. They probably are not native to North America, but entered in seeds carried by settlers through ports. These weevils are pests of grain throughout the world. (Penn State Agricultural Sciences)
Identification – Weevils occur in a wide range of colors and body shapes. Many are slender or oval-shaped insects. They are usually dark-colored—brownish to black with shiny hairs covering their backs. Weevils possess conspicuous snouts. They are often lightbulb or pear-shaped.
The Problem – Weevils seem attracted to buildings and grains such as nuts, seeds, cereal, macaroni, pasta and grain products, such as pancake mix. They can chew through pantry containers and get into food items. They seek shelter from unfavorable weather conditions, especially when it is hot and dry. These weevils enter buildings by crawling through cracks or openings around foundations, doors, and windows. For farmers grain buildings are especially vulnerable to infestation.
Control – Yet again, like many other pests, prevention is the key to stopping an infestation. For people in the agricultural field storage of grains in bins at both farms should be carefully completed. Clean out old grains and sanitize the area. Grain that is to be stored for longer than six months may need a protective application of an approved insecticide.
For homeowners who are experiencing these structural pests, especially on windows, sills and walls, may need to take action. As a first step removal via a vacuum cleaner or broom is called for. Be sure to take the vacuum outside to empty it so the weevils don’t reinfest the home.The most important control method is to find the source of their attraction and remove it especially observing pantry and kitchen areas. Pro-Tech and our sister company Pest-End can help you manage and control your weevil problem.