Weevils

WEEVIL IDENTIFICATION

Also called snout beetles, weevils comprise a large group of beetles known for their elongated heads. The leaf-damaging mouthparts of adult weevils are at the end of these long, curved snouts. Most common weevils grow between 1/4 to 1/2 inches long. Their pear-shaped bodies range in color from black and red-brown to iridescent green. Small scales cover their hard shells, which often look pitted or scarred. Some adult weevils fly, but others do not.

Immature weevils are whitish, grub-like larvae that feed on plant stems, shoots and roots. Most common weevil larvae grow up to 1/2 inch long — about half the size of Japanese beetle grubs. Unlike grubs, weevil larvae are legless.

SIGNS OF WEEVILS

Weevils often enter homes during hot, dry weather in search of moisture and cooler hideouts. You may find them near doorways, strolling across floors or hanging out near sinks, bathtubs or showers. Some types infest cereals, flours and pet food.

Outdoors, adult weevils feed on plant leaves and flowers. Some types create distinctive, notched holes along leaf edges. Like billbugs — a group of lawn-damaging weevils — some weevils lay eggs inside plants. Newly hatched larvae eat their way out as they grow, leaving hollow stems and wilted, dying plants behind. You may find them feeding inside larger stems or at ground level, feeding on plant crowns and roots.

HOW TO CONTROL WEEVILS

Effective weevil control stops these pests before they damage plants or get inside your home. Inspect your home's foundation, and seal any cracks and openings where weevils or other home-invading pests could enter. Then treat your lawn and home perimeter thoroughly. Amdro brand offers several highly effective products to kill weevils by contact and protect your plants and home:

• Amdro Quick Kill Insect Killer for Lawn & Landscape, available in ready-to-spray and concentrate formulas, works in minutes to kill weevils by contact. Then it keeps protecting against these pests for up to three months. Use it to treat lawns, trees, shrubs and flower gardens. You can even treat your home's foundation up to a height of 2 feet.
• Amdro Quick Kill Lawn Insect Killer Granules simplifies full-yard treatment to kill weevils in your lawn and home perimeter. Apply the granules with a standard lawn spreader, then water the treated area lightly to release the active ingredient. This product kills weevils by contact within 24 hours and keeps protecting for up to three months.
• Amdro Quick Kill Ant & Spider Killer Shaker Bag offers a convenient, easy-to-use formula ideal for smaller areas around your home's perimeter. Apply the ready-to-use granules with the resealable shaker bag. Then water lightly to release the active ingredient and reach weevils where they hide. This fast-acting, deep-reaching formula kills weevils by contact within 24 hours and protects against these pests for up to two months.

WEEVIL CONTROL TIP

If you find weevils inside your home, check your pantry and discard infested foods. Physically remove weevils in other areas with a dustpan and broom or a vacuum.

Always read product labels and follow the instructions carefully.