Strawberry Root Weevil

Description:

Weevils are small beetles that possess conspicuous snouts. These weevils are about 1/4 inch long, black or dark brown with rows of pits along their back. Strawberry root weevils do not fly.

Habitat:

Strawberry root weevil larvae feed on the roots of strawberries, evergreens--such as arborvitae, spruce, and Japanese yew--raspberries and other brambles, grapes and many other plants. Adults start to emerge in early summer. They feed on the edges of foliage, leaving a characteristic notched appearance. Root weevils wander into homes most frequently during late June and July. Household migrations greatly increase during periods of hot, dry weather. The Insects apparently are attracted to the moisture of the building. Inside homes, the root weevils cause no injury to humans or household furnishings. However, they can be quite abundant and a considerable nuisance. Because root weevils do no harm inside homes, the best way to handle infestations is to tolerate occasional beetles, vacuuming them as they are observed. Root weevils will move out of homes on their own, and infestations subside as rapidly as they begin.

Notes:

This particular specimen was IN the house, more particularly, it was IN MY EAR! I awoke with a start when tromping on ear drum began!