Extermination of larder beetles in Montreal, Laval and the South Shore
What is larder beetle?
Definition
The larder beetle(Dermestes lardarius) is a member of the Dermestidae family. It is considered a pest because its larvae feed on materials of animal and plant origin, causing damage to foodstuffs, textiles and even wooden structures.
Adults have a dark brown body with a mottled yellowish stripe on the back, and measure between 7 and 9 mm. Larvae are longer (up to 15 mm) and covered in brownish or black hairs with two hook-shaped appendages at the posterior end.
Larder beetles thrive mainly in warm, dark places, such as pantries, warehouses and museums containing naturalized specimens.
Who is most at risk from larder beetle infestation?
Environments most at risk :
- Private residences: pantries, kitchens and basements where dry food is stored.
- Butchers and delicatessens: Meat products stored in poor conditions.
- Food warehouses: Storage areas for dried meats, flour, cereals and animal feed.
- Museums and zoological collections: Dried insects, furs and taxidermy can be damaged.
Infestations can spread rapidly, especially if products are stored for long periods without inspection.
Why use an extermination company?
Larder beetles can cause serious damage:
Food contamination: Larvae leave excrement and exuviae (dead skin) in foodstuffs.
Damage to materials: They burrow into wood, leather and textiles.
Rapid propagation: A female lays up to 200 eggs, and the development cycle is rapid under optimal conditions.
Hygiene and regulations: for food businesses, infestation can lead to health penalties.
📞 Contact our specialized extermination service for a quick and efficient response.
How to recognize a larder beetle infestation?
- Adult insects present: small dark-brown beetles with a mottled yellowish stripe.
- Visible larvae: long and covered with brown hairs, they are often hidden in cracks.
- Contaminated food debris: Presence of larval remains, excrement or unpleasant odors.
- Damage to packaging: small holes in bags of flour, cereals or dried meats.
If you notice any of these signs, you need to act quickly.
Comparison with other food pests
| Pest | Appearance | Damage caused | Infested areas |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lard beetle | Dark brown, yellow stripe, hairy larvae | Dry food, leather, wood | Kitchens, museums, warehouses |
| Carpet beetle | Small black beetle, brush-shaped larvae | Rugs, woollen garments | Wardrobes, tapestries |
| Grain weevil | Small elongated brown insect, distinctive proboscis | Grains, cereals | Silos, warehouses, pantries |
Professional extermination process
- Complete site inspection
- Analysis of contaminated areas and assessment of infestation levels.
- Identify high-risk products and sources of moisture that encourage larvae development.
- Eliminating sources of infestation
- Withdrawal and destruction of infested products (flour, dried meats, textiles).
- Deep cleaning of closets, storerooms and cracks.
- Application of targeted treatments
- Safe insecticides applied in areas of infestation.
- Heat treatment in certain cases to eradicate larvae and eggs.
- Prevention and follow-up
- Pheromone traps to detect and monitor remaining populations.
- Tips to avoid infestation by improving storage conditions.
Prevention and sustainable solutions
Proper storage: Store food in airtight containers.
Regular cleaning: Vacuum cupboards and check stored foodstuffs.
Stock monitoring: Regularly sort out out-of-date foodstuffs.
Humidity control: A dry environment reduces the likelihood of larvae developing.
Periodic inspection: Check your collections, textiles or food products for contamination.
By applying these measures, you greatly reduce the risk of a new infestation.
FAQ : Frequently asked questions about larder beetles
Are larder beetles dangerous to your health?
They don’t bite and don’t transmit disease directly, but they can contaminate food with their excrement and exuviae.
Why do I have lice in my house when I don’t have dried meat?
These insects can also feed on animal kibbles, grains, flours and textiles containing animal proteins.
How long does it take to completely eliminate an infestation?
Professional intervention can usually bring an infestation under control within a few days, but ongoing monitoring is recommended.
Need a fast response?
Don’t let larder beetles contaminate your food and damage your property. We take prompt action to eliminate these pests safely.
Contact us today for a free estimate! Our services are available exclusively in Montreal, Laval and the South Shore.