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What kind of bug is this and how do I get rid of it #817905

Asked December 30, 2022, 5:14 PM EST

These little bugs fly- not straight. I see in all rooms. Took food out of cupboard and found one in bag of almonds. I see 5-6 per day- so want to locate and get rid of Located near white paper in photo. Thanks

Linn County Oregon

Expert Response

Greata:

I see what looks like a moth on the almonds, and what looks like webbing around the moth and on the almonds. This is to me a storage pest insect. I cannot tell which storage pest the moth is, but I can give you information on how to deal with these types of pests. Let me know if you have any questions

Rich

Prevention & Management of storage pest. PURDUE EXTENSION

PREVENTION: The following procedures will help prevent infestations. 1. Purchase dried food in packages that can be used up in a short time. Keep foods in storage less than two to four months, if possible. Use older packages before newer ones and opened packages before unopened ones. 2. When purchasing packaged foods, be certain that the containers are not broken or unsealed. Check the packaging date to be assured of the freshness of the food. Packages with clear plastic or wax paper coverings should be checked for the presence of insects. (Foods are sometimes infested before being brought into the home.) 3. Store dried foods in insect-proof containers, such as screw-top glass, heavy plastic, or metal containers. This will prevent entry or escape of insects. Ordinary metal kitchen canisters are generally not tight enough to exclude insects. Some plastic containers with very tight-fitting lids maybe acceptable. Cardboard, paper, or plastic wrapping will not prevent insect infestations. 4. Storing dried foods in a home freezer will prevent pests from developing. 5. Keep food storage areas clean and do not allow crumbs or food particles to accumulate, as exposed food will attract insects. Cleanliness is also important in areas where pet food and birdseed are stored.

STEPS IN CONTROLLING BEETLES AND FLOUR MOTHS: 1. Determine sources of infestation by carefully examining all susceptible foods. Properly dispose of any that are heavily infested. Small amounts of highly susceptible foods can be kept in the refrigerator. 2. If infested material has further value or if infestation is questionable, heat the material in shallow plans in the oven at 130ºF for at least 30 minutes or place in a deepfreeze at 0ºF for four days. 3. Empty and vacuum cabinets and shelves to pick up loose infested material; then wash them with soap and hot water. 4.Routine use of insecticides within food storage areas such as pantries and cabinets is not recommended and normally will give little additional control in the absence of an extensive cleaning program. Some household formulations of pyrethrin are labeled for use as crack and crevice treatments near food storage areas. There are also some formulations of pyrethroid insecticides that allow general use in the home and may help manage insects that are widely dispersed. Never allow insecticides to come in direct contact with food or food utensils. Remove all food and utensils during insecticide treatment to avoid accidental contamination. Treatment of cracks and crevices is more effective since insects may hide in these locations. Always read and follow label directions when using pesticides! This is extremely important when Insect treatments are made around foodstuffs or food handling areas. Only products labeled specifically for use around food storage areas may be used for controlling insect pests around areas where food is stored. 5. If pesticides are applied, cover shelves with clean fresh paper or foil before replacing food or cooking utensils, etc. 6. Avoid spillage and keep storage spaces clean. 7. Control moths or beetles flying around indoors by using a "flying insect" household aerosol insecticide. Total release aerosols containing synergized pyrethrin are also available for this use. Insects infesting ornaments and decorations made from plant or animal products can be killed by placing the items in a freezer for three or four days. Insects in these items may also be killed by placing them in airtight containers along with aerosol fogs of the insecticides mentioned above. Leave the treated container closed for at least eight hours. Retreatment may be necessary if all insects are not killed. Be careful when using plastic containers as some chemicals may react adversely with certain plastic materials. Pretesting the container with the insecticide to be used is always a sound practice. Caution -- if insects continue to appear, check other rooms in the home for possible sources. Dermestids (carpet beetles) will develop in many products, including feathers, silk, wool, fur, stuffed animal skins, dead insects, lint, and many other materials. If insect problems persist, seek help from a commercial pest control manager.

An Ask Extension Expert Replied December 31, 2022, 1:22 PM EST

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