The Colorado Potato Beetle (CPB) became a pest when settlers brought potatoes into the Rocky Mountain area, the native habitat of this beetle. The beetle preferred the potato to its host weed and has spread to become a serious pest throughout the US and Eastern Canada.The CPB feeds on the leaves and terminal growth of nightshade-family plants, such as potato, tomato, and eggplant. The potato, however, is its preferred plant. The above-ground destruction of potato plants can cause severe reduction in tuber size and overall yield.

Our kitchens contain an array of stored food items that serve as welcome habitats for many insect pests. These include a variety of beetles and moths that are capable of infesting and destroying a variety of dried foods.