Information
Larder beetles are occasional pests of households where they feed on a wide variety of animal protein-based products. Common foods for these beetles include leather goods, hides, skins, dried fish, pet food, bacon, cheese and feathers.
The most common species are the hide and larder beetles and they are known scientifically as Dermestes maculatus and Dermestes lardarius. Both belong to the insect family called Dermestidae and are related to carpet beetles. Many Dermestes beetles are cosmopolitan, meaning they are distributed around the world. The hide and larder beetles are thought to have originated in Europe and Asia; while the black larder beetle is believed to have originated from North America.
Dermestes beetles feed on a wide variety of animal protein based products and are serious pests in silkworm production and in museums. Common food sources include leather goods, hides, skins, dried fish, pet food, bacon, cheese and feathers. Household infestations are sometimes attributed to the presence of bird or rodent carcasses, old bird nests, or accumulations of dead insects. Dermestes may possibly feed on plant material of high protein content, but this is not a preferred food source. Mature Dermestes larvae also bore into hard substances such as wood, cork, tobacco, plaster, to pulpate. The hide beetle is sometimes used by museums for cleaning bones and skulls.
Life Cycle
Females require a continuous supply of water and food to achieve their maximum egg laying capacities. Female hide beetles provided with dried meat and water lay an average of 318 eggs. Eggs are laid one at a time or in small batches on the food source, and hatch within 4 to 6 days.
Control
Infestations are controlled by locating and destroying the source of the infestation and then keeping the area clean.
To control an infestation, spray the structure with a residual insecticide, concentrating on cracks and crevices. Destroying a widespread infestation may require additional treatments.
Treatment can be carried out professionally by the Bury Metro Pest Control Unit.
