Cigarette Beetle

Natural Habitat

Found worldwide in human structures, particularly in pantries, warehouses, and locations where dried botanical products are stored.

Diet & Feeding

Larvae feed on a wide variety of dried organic items including tobacco, spices, cereal, dried fruit, flour, seeds, and even book bindings.

Behavior Patterns

Adults are strong fliers and are most active in dim light. They have a hunched appearance with the head tucked down. They exhibit a complete metamorphosis from egg to larvae, pupae, and adult.

Risks & Benefits

Significant domestic and commercial pest that causes economic damage by contaminating and destroying stored food and tobacco. They do not bite or sting humans and carry no known diseases, but cause significant food waste.

Identified on: 1/11/2026