Beetles | Pest Identification Guide
Quick Facts About Beetles
Beetles are diverse pests found throughout Tennessee homes and businesses. While they share similar traits, different species can cause various problems from structural damage to food contamination.- Size: Varies by species
- Color: Various colors including black, brown, red, and patterned
- Shape: Oval to elongated with hard shell-like wings
- Active Season: Year-round, depending on species
- Lifespan: Varies by species
- Reproduction Rate: Varies by species
What Do Beetles Look Like?
Beetles in Tennessee feature strong chewing mouth parts, robust antennae, and distinctive shell-like front wings (called elytra) that protect their hindwings and prevent damage and dehydration. While they are poor fliers, beetles are resilient insects with varied appearances depending on their species.Key Identifying Features
- Elytra (Shell-like Wings): Hard protective coverings that shield the delicate hindwings
- Strong Mandibles: Powerful chewing mouthparts that can damage wood, fabric, and food
- Robust Antennae: Distinctive antennae that vary in shape and size between species
- Segmented Body: Three main body sections (head, thorax, and abdomen)
Related Species
Tennessee is home to numerous beetle pest species including Anobiid, Bostrichid, and Lyctid Powderpost Beetles which damage wood structures; Carpet Beetles and Black Carpet Beetles that damage fabrics; and Cigarette Beetles and Drugstore Beetles that infest stored products and dried foods. Asian Lady Beetles, Black Beetles, and Ground Beetles are also common in Tennessee homes.
Health & Property Risks
Health Concerns
Beetles can cause various health issues through contamination and allergic reactions.
- Food Contamination: Stored product beetles like Drugstore Beetles can contaminate flour and other dried goods
- Allergic Reactions: Carpet beetle fragments and shed skins can trigger allergic responses in sensitive individuals
- Disease Transmission: Some beetle species can carry and transmit diseases
Property Damage
Different beetles target specific materials in your home, causing various types of damage.
- Structural Damage: Powderpost beetles can damage support beams and wooden structures
- Fabric Damage: Carpet beetles can destroy fabrics, upholstery, and clothing
- Food Spoilage: Stored product beetles contaminate and destroy food supplies
- Wood Destruction: Wood-boring beetles can compromise furniture, flooring, and structural timber
Where to Look for Beetles in Your Home
Pests like beetles can be found throughout your home depending on their species and preferences. Look for powderpost beetles near wooden structures, carpet beetles in closets and fabric storage, and stored product beetles in pantries and food storage areas.When to Call Professional Help
Professional intervention is necessary when you notice signs of active beetle infestations such as small holes in wooden surfaces, sawdust-like frass near wooden items, damaged fabrics, or insects in stored foods. If you’ve tried preventive measures such as sealing cracks, replacing damaged screens, storing food in airtight containers, and inspecting lumber and packages before bringing them inside, but still have beetles, it’s time to call the experts.
