There are more than 50 species of Dermestes, known collectively as Hide Beetles, and a few of these are common as domestic pests. This is a serious pest in commercial and domestic kitchens, particularly around food cupboards, cookers and refrigerators.
Their appearance is usually associated with food scraps and debris on which they can successfully breed. The adult beetles fly readily, and are attracted to sources of light at night, creating problems in upper floor areas of houses. They are also associated with birds nests in lofts.
The adult beetles range from 5.5 to 12mm in length, are oblong in shape and are densely covered in hairs. Female insects lay eggs on material suitable for food for the larvae, often in cracks and crevices. The larvae are quite distinct - up to 14mm long, dark brown banded with distinctive bristles, known as 'woolly bears'. During the larval stages they actively avoid light and if disturbed feign death by lying still, curling themselves up in the process.
When ready to pupate they may burrow their way into relatively hard substances such as wooden panelling and structural timbers which can cause significant damage.
The most important control measure is to thoroughly clean all areas affected by Hide Beetles. All food debris must be removed in and around, food cupboards, cookers, refrigerators and all other areas of the kitchen and affected rooms. All foodstuffs affected must be disposed of. Good hygiene is the way to control these insects. Once this has occurred, the Pest Control Officer should be contacted to apply a suitable insecticidal which will have a long lasting residual effect.
The treatment is carried out using an approved insecticide. Further information on the insecticide is available on request. The use of insecticide is carefully controlled by the Control of Pesticides Regulations 1986.
The Pest Control Officer is fully trained and all necessary measures are taken to comply with the Health and Safety at Work, Etc. Act 1974 and Regulations thereunder. Instructions will be given at the time of application in relation to safety of the householder and pests.
In some cases more than one application is necessary to ensure control.
The pest control service is available to Council Housing and Housing Association tenants only.
Private householders and commercial companies are advised to contact a pest control company for any treatment that may be required.
For enquiries outwith Clackmannanshire Council's area, it is recommended that you contact your local Environmental Health Department or a private pest control contractor.
Environmental Health
Kilncraigs, Greenside Street, Alloa, FK10 1EB
Tel: 01259 450000
Email: ehealth@clacks.gov.uk