Pear-shaped weevils are seen everywhere in North Karnataka, but they are harmless, say experts
Instagram user Tanmayi Bhat sought suggestions to tackle the insects, drawing over 1,900 comments. Several users reported similar sightings across North Karnataka towns.
Rashmi Shanubhag, a homemaker from Shirur Park in Hubballi, said the insects entered her house despite doors and windows being shut. We initially feared they might bite and used insect repellent,” she said. Pear-shaped weevils are seen everywhere in North Karnataka, but they are harmless, say experts Pear-shaped weevils are seen everywhere in North Karnataka, but they are harmless, say experts Pear-shaped weevils are seen everywhere in North Karnataka, but they are harmless, say experts Pear-shaped weevils are seen everywhere in North Karnataka, but they are harmless, say experts Hubballi : A sudden proliferation of pear-shaped weevils across North Karnataka has left residents puzzled and irritated, with hundreds of the insects swarming around lights after sunset. Though harmless to humans, their unusually high numbers this year have prompted people to seek solutions from experts and urban local bodies. The issue has also generated considerable chatter on social media over the past month. “Within minutes, hundreds appeared around the lights.
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Krushi SM, a student at KLE Prerana PU Science Residential College, Kotgondhunsi, said thousands of the insects appeared on the campus. The management acted swiftly to control them,” she said. Wildlife activist Harshavardhan Sheelavant said the insects emerge in large numbers during this season as part of their reproductive cycle. No need to worry: Entomologist TP Manjunath, district entomologist with Dharwad’s district surveillance unit, said the weevils pose no threat to humans. “Their numbers are certainly higher this year,” he said, adding that the herbivorous snout beetles are attracted to artificial lights during the green gram and black gram harvest season. Manjunath said the insects neither bite nor irritate human skin and have a lifespan of about a month. This is an organic way of repelling them,” he said.
The problem has also affected students. “Our study hour was reduced by an hour last week. Their life cycle, however, is highly influenced by climatic conditions, particularly unusual variations in temperature, humidity and rainfall. He advised residents against unnecessary pest-control measures. “If they enter homes in the evening, switch off indoor lights and turn on outdoor lights for a while. They will move towards the outside light. Download the TOI App.