Bug of the Month: Cigarette Beetles

Of all of the species of anobiids (beetles), there is one that stands out among the rest — the cigarette beetle. They can infest your home out of nowhere because of how they enter your home; via pre-packaged goods. This species of beetle has been known to be a household pests since the days in ancient Egypt.

Breakdown
Size: 2-3 mm (⅛ inch)
Color: Reddish-Brown
Distinguishing Characteristics: Oval shaped; wing covers are covered with small hairs; serrated antennae
Whereabouts: Dark or dimly lit cracks and crevices; mostly active during dusk and night

What They Infest
Cigarette beetles get their name from the item that they are the biggest pests of; if you’ve guessed cigarettes then you, my friend, are correct! These pests are the number one pest of stored tobacco products as well as flour, dried fruits, coffee, herbs, spices, nuts, and other dry food products. If you thought that they stopped at food then you’ve guessed wrong! Cigarette beetles will also infest dried plants, floral arrangements, prescription drugs, furniture stuffing, and bookbinding paste.

Pest Management
To remove some of these pests yourself, you can begin sorting through all of the infested items. All food items and anything else not worth keeping should be put into sealed plastic bags and thrown out. For the items that you do not want to throw away, place them in a sealed plastic bag and place in the refrigerator or freezer for about a week. The extreme cool temperatures will kill any possible cigarette beetles and larvae. You can also heat items in the oven at roughly 200° F for an hour.

Cigarette Beetles are a common household pest that can infest many different items in your home. You can take it upon yourself to help rid these bugs from your home, but this infestation will need to be managed by a professional. The pest management professionals at Knockout Pest Control can help rid your home of all pests and prevent them from returning. To learn more, or to schedule an appointment, give us a call at (800) 244-7378.

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