With the recent warmer weather, Rentokil Pest Control and Rentokil Property Care are warning homeowners to be aware of an increase of certain species of beetles. Some species of beetle are not only a nuisance but could cause damage.
As the warmer months encourage people to open windows and doors, and be outside more, the opportunities for beetles to enter buildings increases greatly. Whilst beetles can be present at any time of the year, it is during the warmer summer months that their reproductive cycles are accelerated, making infestations more likely - especially when found in the home. Rentokil Pest Control has recorded a 32.2% rise in customer callouts for biscuit beetle, and a 15.1% rise in varied carpet beetle this year, in comparison to the same time period in 2022.
Biscuit beetles, also known as drugstore beetles or bread beetles, are common pests that infest stored food products. They have a broad diet and can feed on a variety of items, including biscuits, bread, spices, nuts, and even non-food items like drugs and tobacco. This makes them particularly well adapted to becoming a nuisance in people's homes, as well as food processing facilities, and warehouses.
To prevent biscuit beetle infestations, it is crucial to ensure good food storage and hygiene. This includes properly sealing and storing food items in airtight containers, regularly inspecting and discarding expired or infested products, and keeping food storage areas clean and free of crumbs or spillages that can attract these pests.
If you notice signs of biscuit beetle infestation, such as tiny holes in food packages, or small beetles or larvae near food items, it is recommended to promptly discard affected products and thoroughly clean the area. If the infestation persists or becomes widespread, professional pest control services such as Rentokil Pest Control can be sought to effectively eliminate beetles and prevent further damage.
Varied carpet beetles are a common pest in museums and homes. They are not very big, growing to about 3mm long, and are ladybird shaped. Body patterns vary according to species but are often a mixture of black, white and yellow.
They are scavengers of natural fibres and have a preference for carpets, but they will consume other items such as wool, silk, and even natural fibres in clothing, making them particularly resilient and well-suited to infesting homes. Regular cleaning, vacuuming, and proper storage of vulnerable items are crucial in minimising the risk of infestations. However, if an infestation does occur, it is advisable to seek professional help.
Paul Blackhurst, Head of Technical Academy at Rentokil Pest Control, said: “While the arrival of the summer months is something to be enjoyed, it can also bring with it the threat of household pests. Once an infestation has taken root, it can be tricky to remedy the situation. It’s important therefore that any telltale signs are monitored, and action is taken as quickly as possible to prevent further risks.”
Whilst many species of beetle are nothing to be alarmed about, certain species are cause for concern. Deathwatch beetles (Xestobium rufovillosum) are small wood-boring insects named after the tapping sound they produce, which has been associated with superstitions about impending death. Adult deathwatch beetles are typically chocolate brown with patches of yellowish hairs and measure around 5 to 7 millimetres in length, with antennae that are segmented.
Deathwatch can be found throughout the United Kingdom wherever decayed oak in particular is present. They are rarely found in Scotland and not in Northern Ireland to date. These beetles are restricted by their specific food requirements and preferentially infest the sapwood of hardwoods (Oak, Ash, Chestnut). The threat posed by deathwatch beetles is significant due to the damage they are able to cause to the wooden structure of a property. The larvae of the deathwatch beetle feed on decayed wood, though undecayed items can be attacked if next to an extensive infestation. If left untreated, a deathwatch beetle infestation can result in costly and extensive repairs to the property.
Although less destructive, the Common Furniture beetle (Anobium punctatum), is a small, reddish-brown beetle, typically measuring around 3 to 5 millimetres in length. The Common Furniture Beetle is responsible for 80% of all woodworm damage in the UK. The larvae of these beetles bore into wood and feed on it, causing structural damage to properties and wooden furniture if left unchecked. They particularly enjoy old plywood backs to wardrobes and bases to drawers. An infestation of Common Furniture beetle can be identified by the presence of small round exit holes on the surface of the wood, usually about 1 to 2 millimetres in diameter.
Nicholas Donnithorne, UK Technical Services Manager at Rentokil Property Care, said: “Homeowners should remain vigilant and keep an eye out for any signs of a potential infestation, regularly inspecting all wooden structures for signs of damage. This includes checking for small holes or tunnels in the wood, as well as the presence of frass (larval droppings) which can be signs that an infestation has taken hold.”
