Bird Poop Weevil (or Bird-dropping Weevil)
Scientific Name: Mesocordylus spp. or various Genera/Species (e.g., Sternochetus spp.)
Order & Family: Order: Coleoptera; Family: Curculionidae
Size: 3mm to 10mm (approximately 0.1 to 0.4 inches)
Natural Habitat
Found on leaves, stems, and flower buds of host plants in deciduous forests, gardens, and agricultural areas where camouflage is necessary.
Diet & Feeding
Herbivorous; they often feed on the internal tissues of seeds, fruits, or stems depending on the specific species.
Behavior Patterns
Utilizes aggressive mimicry and camouflage to resemble bird excrement to avoid predation. When disturbed, they often 'play dead' (thanatosis), tucking their legs and snout in and falling to the ground.
Risks & Benefits
No risk to humans or pets. Some species are considered agricultural pests if they target crops (like the Mango Seed Weevil), while others are a natural part of the forest ecosystem and serve as a food source for other animals.
Identified on: 3/5/2026