Drugstore Beetle (or Cigarette Beetle)

Natural Habitat

Found indoors worldwide, particularly in kitchens, pantries, and storage areas where dried plant products are kept.

Diet & Feeding

Scavengers that feed on a wide variety of dried organic materials including flour, cereals, spices, bread, dried flowers, and even prescription drugs or leather.

Behavior Patterns

They are active fliers and are attracted to light. Females lay eggs in food sources; the larvae tunnel through the material as they feed and grow. They are known for being able to bore through packaging.

Risks & Benefits

They are major household pests that contaminate stored food products. While they do not bite or carry diseases harmful to humans, the economic risk is high due to food spoilage and destruction of property.

Identified on: 3/24/2026