Larder beetles

Life-Cycle

Adult larder beetles are 7-9mm long,with an oval-shaped covered with round scale-like hairs.  The beetle has a distinguishing mark of a broad light band with three black spots on each side. 

The beetles are common where animal products are handled.  Infestations in domestic premises often occur in larders or in attics or under-floor spaces where they may be feeding on dead rodents or birds.

The eggs are white and about 2mm in length often laid in crevices, the larvae hatch out in about a week and are dark brown and hairy, feeding on dry or decomposing animal matter.  Damage is caused by the larvae which bore holes into materials.

Treatment

Spray treatment is available where infestations are extensive.