Cigarette Beetle

Cigarette beetles are small, oval-shaped insects about 1/10 inch long, reddish-brown in color. Their heads are tucked downward, giving them a humped appearance. They have serrated antennae and their wing covers (elytra) are smooth.

Look for small, round holes in stored products like dried tobacco, spices, pet food, or cereals. You may also find the beetles themselves crawling around or dead beetles near infested items. A fine, powdery dust (frass) near the infested products is also a sign.

MBPC can identify and eliminate cigarette beetle infestations in your Grand Strand home. Treatment involves identifying and removing infested products, followed by thorough cleaning and vacuuming. In some cases, targeted insecticide treatments by our SC-licensed technicians may be necessary, especially in commercial settings.

Store dried goods in airtight containers to prevent infestations, a crucial step in the humid Myrtle Beach environment. Regularly inspect stored food products for signs of beetles and discard any infested items. Maintain a clean and dry environment in your pantry and storage areas to minimize the risk.

Cigarette beetles thrive in warm, humid environments like those found in Myrtle Beach, SC. They are commonly found in stored food pantries, warehouses, and even tobacco processing facilities. They can infest a wide range of dried plant and animal products, making coastal homes and businesses susceptible.

Peak activity: Year-Round