Identification
The Drugstore Beetle is a small, oval-shaped, reddish-brown beetle measuring about 2–4 mm in length. It has a slightly humped appearance with fine grooves running longitudinally along its wing covers. Its antennae end in a three-segmented club, distinguishing it from similar pests. Drugstore Beetles are strong fliers and are commonly found worldwide in warm, dry environments.
Lifecycle & Reproduction
Drugstore Beetles undergo complete metamorphosis, progressing through egg, larva, pupa, and adult stages. Females lay up to 100 eggs in stored food products. The eggs hatch within 7–20 days, and the larvae—small, white, and C-shaped—feed for 4–20 weeks before pupating. The pupal stage lasts 1–3 weeks, after which adults emerge, living for 2–8 weeks. Several generations can develop annually in favorable conditions.
Habits, Diet & Behavior
These beetles are highly adaptable and feed on a wide range of stored food products, including flour, cereal, pasta, dried fruit, spices, pet food, and even non-food items such as books, leather, and prescription drugs. They prefer dark, undisturbed areas and are nocturnal in nature. Adults are attracted to light and frequently fly around infested areas.
Where You’ll Find Them / Typical Locations
- Pantries and kitchen cupboards
- Grocery stores and warehouses
- Food processing and pharmaceutical facilities
- Bookshelves and libraries
- Stored pet food and dry goods
Threats & Danger
While Drugstore Beetles do not transmit diseases, they contaminate food with their feces, webbing, and shed skins. Their ability to chew through packaging allows them to spread easily within storage areas, leading to extensive food waste and economic loss. Additionally, their infestation in pharmaceutical products can compromise medications.
Prevention
- Store dry goods in airtight, hard plastic or glass containers.
- Regularly inspect food packaging for signs of infestation.
- Keep pantry shelves clean and free of food residue.
- Rotate stock to ensure older items are used first.
- Use bay leaves or diatomaceous earth as natural deterrents.
Signs of Infestation
- Presence of small, reddish-brown beetles in or around food storage.
- Tiny holes in packaging, books, or leather goods.
- Accumulation of fine dust or powder in food storage areas.
- Increased beetle activity near light sources.
How to Get Rid of It
- Dispose of infested food: Seal and discard contaminated products.
- Thoroughly clean storage areas: Vacuum shelves and wipe surfaces with vinegar.
- Freeze infested items: Freezing food at 0°F (-18°C) for a week kills all life stages.
- Use pheromone traps: These help detect and reduce adult populations.
- Apply insecticides (as a last resort): Use food-safe insecticides if necessary.
- Consult professional pest control: For persistent infestations, expert intervention may be required.