Beetles

There are over 30,000 species of beetles in North America. Many are relatively harmless, but some species of beetles can infest stored foods or potentially even cause structural damage to home and structures. Regardless of what you’re dealing with, this guide will help you solve whatever beetle issue you are experiencing.

Beetle Species Identify Beetles Hazards & Dangers Get Rid of Beetles FAQ Products for Beetles

Common Beetle Species

Here are some of the most common beetle species found across households in the United States.

Species List

Asian Lady Beetle
Cigarette Beetle
Carpet Beetle
Drugstore Beetle
Flour Beetle
Japanese Beetle
Powderpost Beetle
Sawtooth Grain Beetle
Stink Beetle

How To Identify Beetles

Antennae: Beetle antennae vary widely in shape (clubbed, thread-like, serrated, or feathery) and are often segmented.

Size: Beetles vary greatly in size, ranging from less than 1 mm (like featherwing beetles) to over 150 mm (like Goliath beetles).

Body Shape: Beetles can be oval, elongated, or round, depending on the species. Their bodies are usually compact and rigid.

Color: Beetles come in a wide range of colors, including black, brown, red, yellow, metallic green, and iridescent hues. Patterns like spots, stripes, or bands may also be present.

Hardened Front Wings (Elytra): Beetles have a pair of hard, shell-like front wings (elytra) that cover and protect the delicate hind wings and abdomen.

Asian Lady Beetle Model

You can use the following model to help you identify an asian lady beetle .

Dangers Beetles Pose

Here are some of the dangers beetle infestations can pose.

Dangers and Hazards

Different species of beetles may pose one or many of the following hazards:

Property Damage
Bites
Allergic Reactions
Food Contamination

How to Get Rid of Beetles

Apply any of the following treatment steps that are relevant to your beetle issues.

Treatment Steps

Seal Gaps

Seal gaps and cracks around doors, windows, and walls to prevent beetles from entering your home. Use weatherstripping for doors, silicone caulk for small cracks, and expanding foam for larger gaps around pipes or vents. Door sweeps can seal gaps at the bottom of doors. Regularly check these areas to stop beetles before they get inside.
Clean Surfaces

Clean surfaces in areas with beetle activity to remove food, crumbs, and debris that attract beetles. Pay special attention to kitchens, pantries, and any other areas where food is stored or prepared. Regular cleaning helps prevent future beetle activity.
Food in Sealed Containers

Store food in airtight containers to prevent beetles, especially pantry pests, from accessing it. Use containers with tight-fitting lids for dry goods like flour, grains, and cereals. This will help keep your food safe from infestations.
Treat Problem Areas Inside

Treat areas inside the home where beetles are most active, like kitchens, pantries, and basements. These areas often have food and moisture that attract beetles. Applying NatureTek to these hotspots will help reduce the beetle population and prevent them from spreading throughout the home.
Foundation Treatment

Treat the foundation of your home to create a barrier that prevents beetles from entering. Spray NatureTek 2 feet up the wall and 2 feet out from the base to create a 4-foot perimeter. This barrier blocks beetles from entering through cracks or gaps in the foundation.
Treat Entry Points

Treat around common entry points like doors, windows, and vents to prevent beetles from getting inside. Pay special attention to areas where you’ve seen beetles or where gaps may exist. NatureTek’s treatment will form a protective barrier that keeps beetles from entering your home.

FAQ

Get more information about beetles here.

Why do Beetle infestations happen?

Beetle infestations often occur when there’s access to food, moisture, and shelter. For example, pantry pests are drawn to grains, cereals, and dried foods, while other beetles may be attracted to wood, fabric, or decaying organic matter. Moisture and cracks around the foundation or entry points can also invite beetles inside.
Are Beetles Dangerous?

While most beetles are not harmful, some species can cause damage to your home or belongings. For instance, carpet beetles and wood-boring beetles can damage furniture, textiles, and wooden structures. In addition, certain beetles may be a nuisance, as their presence can indicate larger infestation issues or hygiene concerns.
Do Beetles bite?

Most beetles do not bite humans, but some species, like the carpet beetle, may cause skin irritation if handled. The majority of beetles are more likely to cause damage to materials or plants than to pose a direct threat to people.
How can I prevent future beetle issues?

Prevent beetles by sealing cracks and gaps around doors, windows, and the foundation of your home. Store food in airtight containers, regularly clean food areas, and eliminate moisture sources. Use NatureTek to treat your home and create a barrier that prevents beetles from entering or settling in your space.
Does NatureTek work on beetles?

Yes, NatureTek is effective against a variety of beetles, including pantry pests, wood-boring beetles, and more. It helps to create a barrier around your home, preventing beetles from entering and spreading throughout your space. Regular treatments will ensure ongoing protection from infestations.

Best Product for Beetles

The best product for solving beetle issues is the NatureTek Pro Kit. The products included in that treatment have the residual and transfer effects necessary for long-term control of beetles.

NatureTek Pro Kit

Safe, Effective, Affordable, & No-Commitment