The strawberry root weevil (Otiorhynchus ovatus) is a dark brown to black beetle with elbowed antennae and a blunt snout. The adult insect is about 6 mm (one-quarter inch) long.
The Problem
Most complaints about this beetle occur because of their abundance in homes during late spring and late summer. The beetles cannot fly but can be found crawling on walls, floors, ceilings, and items in the home.
Adult root weevils will feed on leaves of host plants, such as strawberries, clover and grasses. The Larvae prefer the roots of strawberry, raspberry, and containered evergreens. In severe infestations, root damage can stunt the growth of host plants.
What You Can Do
The best way to control strawberry root weevils around the home is to prevent access by sealing cracks with caulking compound and installing weather stripping.
If some insects still manage to enter your home, use a broom or vacuum cleaner to remove them. Be prepared to dispose of the vacuum cleaner contents afterward since it may contain live insects.
Reduce the impact on your strawberry plants by rotating planting locations. Weevils can be removed by hand and discarded. For larger numbers, place a piece of cardboard under the plant and shake the stem; this will cause the weevils to fall off the leaves and can then be discarded.
Spraying with insecticide is not recommended.