Root Weevils
The strawberry root weevil the black vine weevil and
the Sciaphilus weevil may become household nuisance pests
because of their tendency to invade homes in the early
summer. The strawberry root weevil begins to migrate into
homes early to mid July, and for one or two months
afterwards may be found in cupboards and bathtubs and on
walls and ceilings. It is a brownish-black beetle, 5-6 mm
long, with a short, blunt snout protruding from the front
of the head. The body is hard-shelled and the bulbous
wing covers are pitted with many small punctures. These
beetles are unable to fly because the wing covers are
joined together. The larvae and adults feed on the roots
and foliage of strawberry and related plants.
The black vine weevil is very similar to the
strawberry root weevil, except for its larger size (10-12
mm). The wing covers have small, scattered patches of
whitish or yellowish hairs. The immature feed on the
roots of many evergreens and shrubs.
The Sciaphilus weevil, is mostly a problem in the
Upper Peninsula. They are 8 mm in length and more slender
than the preceding two weevils. The body is tannish-gray
with a slightly lighter colored head. This weevil is also
associated with strawberries. It is often first seen in
May, and attempts to control it should be made at this
time.
None of these three weevils attack foodstuffs,
furnishings or woodwork, nor are they dangerous to humans
or pets. They are strictly a nuisance invader. Since
these weevils can not fly they must gain entry into
buildings by crawling or by hitch-hiking on plant
materials. At the first sign of weevil activity treat
the outside foundation of the building with diazinon,
paying particular attention to the sides and bases of
steps and porches and around doorways and basement
windows. Also, treat the grass for a distance of 10 feet
from the foundation. Repeat the applications again in mid
July, and a third time in three weeks if the weevils
persist or reappear. Do not use diazinon inside the
household.
Control of weevils inside the home is more difficult.
They are usually found in widely scattered places, so it
would be difficult to use an insecticide. Therefore, it
is best to remove the offending beetles with a vacuum
cleaner or a broom and dustpan. Also, the removal of wild
strawberries, brambles and related plants may help reduce
problems with these weevils.
For a complete listing of suggested control options
for all home, yard and garden insect pests contact your
local Extension Service, found under local government in
the phone book.
Read and follow instructions on the pesticide label.
Heed all warnings. Check with your physician if you have
any concerns regarding your personal health risk.