Weevil

Weevils are sometimes called “snout beetles”, not a bad nickname for them – as they are basically beetles with longer snouts. There are many types of weevils that attack plants, all varying in size and color. Typically they are darker brown or black, with or without spots or markings. Weevil larvae are subterranean, feeding on the roots of plants and seldom seen. Adult weevils are nocturnal. During the day they hide in soil or debris, and come out at night to feed on all kinds of plants. Depending on the species, they will eat various things including berry vines, flowers, alfalfa, clover, or even woody landscape plants. The damage left from them chewing on leaves looks like half-circle bites taken from around the outside edges. If they are attracted to wild plants, plant removal can be helpful and might be a consideration. If they are suspected to be in your garden, there are several ways to trap and identify them. Spreading sticky trap material around the stalks of more mature plants is one way. Another method is to wrap pieces of burlap around the base of the plants. Weevils love to hide in the folds of burlap during the day, and can be shaken out to remove and identify them. Something else to try is shallow pans of water, as weevils seem to be attracted to them and will drown when they crawl in. Many types of control are available for infested plants. Weevil baits, sprays, nematodes, or diatomaceous earth (abrasive to the weevils) can all be used. Weevils sometimes enter homes, probably to overwinter.