Deathwatch Beetles (Anobiidae / Ptinidae)

Deathwatch beetles are small wood-boring insects whose larvae tunnel through timber, causing potentially serious damage to buildings, furniture and wooden structures. The most common and best-known species in the UK is the common furniture beetle (Anobium punctatum), often referred to as the deathwatch beetle in everyday language. It mainly attacks older, untreated or poorly protected … Read more

Black Vine Weevil (Otiorhynchus sulcatus)

This article explains how to identify black vine weevils (Otiorhynchus sulcatus), where they are typically found in the UK, how to prevent infestations in gardens and greenhouses, and how to control them effectively. In the UK, this pest is commonly known as the black vine weevil, but it may also be referred to as the … Read more

Ground Beetles in the Home – How to Get Rid of Them

Ground beetles (family Carabidae) are normally outdoor insects, but they may occasionally wander into homes – especially in late summer and autumn. Although they can be unpleasant to encounter indoors, they are harmless and cause no damage to buildings or people. However, they can sometimes appear in large numbers and are therefore perceived as a … Read more

Wheat Weevil (Sitophilus granarius)

The wheat weevil (Sitophilus granarius), also known as the granary weevil, is one of the most widespread pests of stored grain in the United Kingdom. It lives hidden inside cereal grains, where it both feeds and reproduces. This insect can cause significant losses in grain stores, mills and feed facilities, as both adult beetles and … Read more

Colorado Potato Beetle (Leptinotarsa decemlineata)

The Colorado potato beetle (Leptinotarsa decemlineata) is a serious pest of potatoes and other plants in the nightshade family (Solanaceae). It originates from North America but has spread to many parts of Europe. In the United Kingdom, the species is occasionally detected, usually through imported plant material, but it is not established due to the … Read more

Bark Beetle (Scolytinae)

Bark beetles (subfamily Scolytinae) are small beetles that live in and feed on wood and bark. Several species occur in the United Kingdom, where they play a natural role in woodland ecosystems but can also become serious pests in forestry and plantations. Of particular concern are species such as the spruce bark beetle (Ips typographus), … Read more

Coffee Bean Weevil (Araecerus fasciculatus)

The coffee bean weevil (Araecerus fasciculatus) is a tropical stored-product pest that primarily attacks dried plant materials such as coffee, cocoa, nuts, dried fruit and cereal products. Although the species originates from warmer regions, it can also occur in the United Kingdom, most commonly via imported food products. The coffee bean weevil is one of … Read more

Blåbukk (Callidium violaceum)

Denne artikkelen beskriver hvordan man identifiserer blåbukk (Callidium violaceum), hvor den forekommer i Norge, hvilke skader den kan forårsake, samt hvordan man forebygger og håndterer angrep effektivt. Hvordan ser blåbukken ut? Den voksne blåbukken er en mellomstor trebukk: Størrelse: 10–20 mm Farge: Metallisk blå til blåfiolett, sterkt skinnende Kropp: Langstrakt og lett flattrykt Antenner: Tydelige, … Read more

Carpet beetles – Identification, occurrence and control

This article outlines how to identify carpet beetles (Dermestidae), where they are commonly found in the UK, how to prevent infestations, and how to effectively get rid of them in homes, flats, and commercial buildings. In the UK, carpet beetles are also referred to as furniture beetles, wool beetles, and museum beetles, depending on the … Read more

Dung beetles – Identification, occurrence and control

This article provides practical information about dung beetles (Scarabaeinae) – how to recognise them, where they are found in the UK, how to avoid issues related to their presence, and how to control or remove them from gardens, agricultural land and other outdoor areas. In the UK, dung beetles are also known as manure beetles, … Read more

Pollen Beetle – Identification, Occurrence, and Control

The pollen beetle, a common pest in the UK, primarily affects oilseed rape and other Brassica plants. Known scientifically as Meligethes aeneus, this beetle is an issue for crops and can sometimes become a nuisance in gardens. In this article, we’ll look at how to identify pollen beetles, understand where they are commonly found, and … Read more

Wharf Borer – Identification, Occurrence and Control

The Wharf Borer beetle (Nacerdes melanura) is a wood-boring pest in the UK, especially near damp, decaying wood in coastal and riverside areas. Known for damaging waterfront timber structures, it can also infest homes and buildings with high moisture levels. This article covers identifying the Wharf Borer, its common habitats, and effective control methods. What … Read more

Confused Flour Beetle – Identification, Occurrence and Control

The confused flour beetle (Tribolium confusum), commonly found across the UK, is a small but significant pest that infests stored flour and grain-based products. This article will cover how to identify the beetle, ways to prevent its spread, and methods to manage and eliminate infestations in homes, food storage areas, and commercial facilities. How Do … Read more

Strawberry Blossom Weevil – Identification, Occurrence and Control

The strawberry blossom weevil (Anthonomus rubi) is a significant pest in the UK, primarily affecting strawberry and raspberry crops. This article details how to identify this pest, where it is found, how to prevent its spread, and the methods to control its impact on your plants. What Does the Strawberry Blossom Weevil Look Like? The … Read more

Raspberry Beetle – Identification, Occurrence, and Control

The raspberry beetle (Byturus tomentosus) is a significant pest affecting raspberries and other cane fruits like blackberries, loganberries, and tayberries. This article provides guidance on identifying the raspberry beetle, understanding its life cycle, where it’s found in the UK, and practical steps to manage and control this pest without compromising garden biodiversity. What Does the … Read more

Biscuit Beetle – Identification, Occurrence, and Control

The biscuit beetle (Stegobium paniceum), also called the drugstore beetle or bread beetle, is a common pest across the UK that infests stored foods and other organic materials. This article provides essential information on identifying biscuit beetles, effective methods for avoiding and controlling infestations, and details on their habitat and life cycle. What Does a … Read more

Harlequin Ladybird – Identification, Occurrence, and Control

The harlequin ladybird, known scientifically as Harmonia axyridis, is one of the most invasive insect species in the UK. Also referred to as the harlequin ladybug or multicoloured Asian ladybird, it poses a threat to native ladybirds due to its voracious appetite and adaptability. Since its introduction in 2004, it has rapidly spread across the … Read more

Garden Chafers in the UK – Identification, occurrence and control

Garden chafers are pretty common in the UK

The garden chafer (Phyllopertha horticola) is one of the most common pest beetles in the UK, notorious for the damage its larvae cause to lawns and gardens. Found across various regions in the UK, the garden chafer has a one-year lifecycle, with adult beetles emerging in late spring or early summer. Understanding how to identify, … Read more