Beetles Identification, Habitat & Diet in Mount Olive, NJ; How to Get Rid of Beetle Pests

Beetles belong to the largest order of insects called Coleoptera meaning “sheathed wing“. This is because most beetles have two pairs of wings. The front pair is called the “elytra” which are hard and thick to form a shell-like protection for the rear pair of wings and the beetle’s abdomen. There are more than a quarter million species of beetles in the world. Scientists have identified more than 25,000 species of beetles in North America alone and new beetles are discovered all the time!

How to Identify Beetle Species

Beetles can sometimes be mistaken for cockroaches but adult beetles can best be identified by looking at their wings. Beetles have well-developed antennae and chewing mouthparts in addition to their shell-like front wings. The wings of a beetle are waterproof and durable. This makes them a great form of protection from dehydration and damage. While many species of insects are great fliers, beetles are not. Beetles come in many shapes, sizes and colors. Some beetles are long and slender while others are oval or round in shape. Some beetles even look like spiders!

Where Do Beetles Live & What Do They Eat?

Depending on the species, beetles typically feed on plants, small insects and animal fibers. Many species of beetles are considered pests in crops and gardens, although some species may be a benefit to humans by killing harmful insects. Some beetles species such as the carpet beetle are pests that eat natural fibers and other fabrics in your home. Other species like the powderpost beetles feed on hardwood and bamboo, attacking wooden furniture and home decor. Flour and grain beetles feed on pantry food products in the home and will also damage food in production facilities and stores. Other beetles damage lawns and landscapes. In late summer and fall, homeowners will find beetles clustered on the outside of their homes. These beetles are trying to invade homes for shelter through the winter and are looking to escape the cold weather.

How to Prevent Beetles from Getting into Your Home

Beetles are generally harmless but can become a nuisance. Preparing your home from the possibility of an invasion may save you the stress of dealing with them. All cracks and holes on the exterior of your home should be sealed using caulk. Also, be sure to check all screens on windows and doors to ensure a tight fit and to check for rips or holes. Beetles can easily find their way around the edges of loose vinyl siding and into walls and attics. Areas to pay attention to include around windows, doors as well as openings for utilities and heating and cooling vents. Rocks around the exterior of your home that may be used as hiding spots should be removed or at least moved further away from the house. This will discourage beetles from gathering around your home. Pest control treatmcents can be applied to the exterior walls in September when the beetles first appear. The treatment should be focused on the south and west walls.

Beetle Inspections & Treatment

Pest control specialists can help to recognize the species of beetle by looking at fabrics, wood and other items that are damaged. Treatment will depend on the species of beetles that have invaded your home. Incorrect identification leads to incorrect treatment and that can lead to possible re-infestation! Call Merlin’s Pest Control today for all your pest control needs.