Pantry Pests
Indian Meal Moth
The Indian meal moth measures 6-7mm, is pale grey and reddish brown. The adult moths have 2 colour wing patterns, a yellowish base with a brown upper area. Females will lay 200-400 eggs during an 18 day period. Larvae hatch after a couple days and feed on grains, corn meal, dried fruit, seeds nuts, dog food, cookies and flour. Only larvae cause damage. Adult moths can be found on ceiling corners and under cabinets, where larvae are found within food products. This moth will be found flying at night or after dusk.
Flour Beetle
There are 2 types of flour beetles commonly found in Ontario. The confused flour beetle and the red flour beetle. They are virtually identical and can lay 200-500 eggs. Heavy infestations where beetles damage food products can cause products to turn grey or mold prematurely. Being less then 4.5mm, these long-lived beetles are a serious pest in grain facilities and food warehouses but can be transported from grocery store products into homes. They feed on flours, cereals, dried beans, peas, peppers, fruits and nuts. These insects infest food products worldwide and affect flavours of products that are damaged.
Granary Weevils
Granary weevil adults are 3.5mm in length, they are oval shaped and chestnut brown to blackish brown. Grains attacked by this species of weevil include whole kernels of wheat, corn, barley oats, nuts and beans. The female produces 50-250 eggs, both adults and larvae cause damage. Adults live up to 5 months.