Lesser Mealworm (Darkling Beetle)

Damp environments, poultry houses, grain storage facilities, and sometimes homes near food sources.

Scavengers that feed on spilled grain, decaying animal and plant matter, and poultry droppings.

Nighttime activity; they go through a complete metamorphosis (egg, larva, pupa, adult) and thrive in warm, humid conditions.

Considered a significant pest in the poultry industry as they can carry diseases like Salmonella; in homes, they are a nuisance and can contaminate stored pantry goods.