Rice and Grain Weevils
Typical insect species found in bird seed include the rice weevil (Sitophilus oryzae) and grain weevil (Sitophilus granarius). These are tiny, black beetles that are 2-3 mm long, and getting rid of them can be quite difficult. Once again, to prevent the moths from getting into pantry staples like oats, flour, rice, and other grains, bird seed and other foods should be stored outside (for additional information on this, continue reading below).
How do I Store Food to Avoid Moths and Other Creatures?
Are you worried about where or how to store your bird food? Are you afraid that it will attract bugs, rodents, or other insects? Proper food storage is essential to keeping your bird food fresh and safe for the birds, and it can last up to a year if stored correctly.
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Rodents and Other Critters
Left: Mouse Species Photo by Kristen Martyn. Right: Eastern Chipmunk (Tamias striatus), Photo by Kristen Martyn.
Left: Eastern Gray Squirrel (Sciurus carolinensis), Photo by Kristen Martyn. Right: Raccoon (Procyon lotor).
To prevent issues with rodents like mice, chipmunks, squirrels, and raccoons, keep all food in sturdy plastic or metal containers that are chew-proof. Make sure food containers are securely stored inside a shed, garage, or cabinet rather than leaving them outside on their own.
Indian Meal Moths and Mediterranean Flour Moths
Indian Meal Moth (Plodia interpunctella), Photo by Kristen Martyn
Two common insects found in bird seed are the Mediterranean Flour Moth (Ephestia kuehniella) and the Indian Meal Moth (Plodia interpunctella). They are a delicious bonus for the birds, who will happily consume the caterpillar larvae and cocoons of these insects. Typically, what’s found in or on seed bags are the moths’ larvae, or caterpillars. Upon hatching, the larvae consume the seeds, and over time, you might notice webbing clusters in the seed. After spinning a cocoon, the larvae create the webbing. When fully developed, they will emerge from the cocoons as adult moths. The birds will enjoy consuming them as a delicious snack because they are completely safe for them to consume. But in order to prevent the moths from getting into pantry staples like oats, flour, rice, and other grains, bird seed and other foods should be stored outside (for additional information on this, continue reading).