Cereal is a breakfast staple in many homes. Many families have happy memories of Saturday morning cartoons and their favourite sweet and crunchy cereal brands. However, have you noticed your go-to breakfast disappearing at a rate faster than your family can eat it? If so, a call to your local residential pest control company might not be far in your future.

There are a variety of pests that eat wheat, grains, and anything that is somewhat nutritious. Whether a furry critter or a creepy-crawly, like any other living thing, pests need food to survive, and a cereal box does not provide the most durable defence, especially once opened.

What or who else might be eating your cereal? Unfortunately, the list is vast, but there are three primary culprits.

1. Rodents

One of the first animals people think of when thinking of cereal thieves is rodents, specifically rats and mice. The suspicion is well-founded because rodents are known for invading pantries.

However, unlike other pests on this list, a rodent problem will be pretty obvious. You will probably notice holes in boxes and packaging. Mice and rats also tend to leave a trail of poop or urine along the route to your cereal. Additionally, if the food source is in a quiet location, you will probably find scraps of cereal strewn about because rodents won’t eat within the box.

2. Ants

There are many species of ants, from carpenter to sugar. Sugar ants are some of the worst intruders when it comes to food. If you are not thorough with breakfast cleanup or food storage, you might find yourself in the midst of a sugar ant infestation.

When sugar ants find a food source, they will bring the colony. Unfortunately, these pests are incredibly challenging to get rid of because they are incredibly persistent.

These tiny insects seem to have a sixth sense with exposed food or remnants. Cereal boxes can provide a welcome meal because once opened, the packaging does not provide a challenging barrier to the food source.

3. Spiders

Many people are shocked to find spiders on the list of potential pests eating your cereal. While spiders are primarily known for eating pesky insects and can be beneficial to have around, they do have a more versatile diet than you might think.

Spiders definitely eat a fair share of flying and crawling insects; some even eat other spiders. Still, they can and do eat other things. Some of the different elements of a spider diet include nectar, pollen, leaf materials, seeds, etc. Your cereal can make its way onto the list of eligible food items. 

Cereal Theft Prevention

The best remedy for pantry pests is cleanliness. You will want to ensure that shelving and floor remain clear of crumbs and other food debris. 

Additionally, you want to avoid storing items in their original containers once opened, especially food items without a tight seal. The cereal is vulnerable once opened, so it is best to repackage it in a secure container, preferably with a screw top or vacuum sealed lid.

Finally, consider calling in a professional service if you are already dealing with a pests control issue. While DIY options are popular and readily available, they are not always effective. Also, many DIY options are cruel. Professionals can quickly resolve your problems without relying on inhumane practices.

Are you tired of finding your cereal and other pantry items are eaten before you and your family have had a chance to enjoy them? Do you believe you are dealing with some sort of cereal-loving pest? Do not waste another minute; contact Truly Nolen and schedule a property assessment to uncover the culprit and delinquent cereal thief.