Catasarcus sp on the fruit of Corymbia calophylla, Marri. (C) Sian Mawson
Cubicorhynchus sp. (C) Sian Mawson
Oxyops sp. (C) Sian Mawson
Rhinotia acaciae. (C) Sian Mawson
Rhinotia acaciae. Sian Mawson
Rhinotia acaciae. Sian Mawson
Thin Strawberry Weevil, Rhadinosomus lacordairei. (C) Sian Mawson
Thin Strawberry Weevil, Rhadinosomus lacordairei. (C) Sian Mawson
Weevil. (C) Sian Mawson
Habitat at a Glance
See Habitat Guide for more detail
Shelter: Shrubs and foliage
Diet: Plant materials
Water: Not required
ReWild Benefit: Pollination and weed control
Habitat Guide - Shelter
Natural Shelter
Weevils are a diverse group of insects, adapted to different plant species and habitats. Some species, including the Tailed Weevil (Rhinotia suturalis) are adaptable to home gardens. Weevils lay their eggs inside the stems of shrubs and trees where their young (called larvae) chew tunnels inside the wood.
Some introduced species are serious pests as they feed on crops. Check the identification of any weevil prior undertaking pest treatment as native weevils are usually not pests and are part of a healthy ecosystem.
Novel Shelter
A template of a bug hotel is illustrated below. Things to consider:
Place several bug hotels throughout the garden to avoid disease spread.
Have several smaller hotels throughout the garden to avoid parasite and predator burden.
Position in a north and east position sheltered with dappled shade.
Keep dry and ensure protection from the rain.
Avoid using insecticides around the garden.
Habitat Guide - Food and Water
Providing natural sources of food
Weevils feed off nectar, pollen, sap, and seeds of various plants. An incredibly diverse garden, rich in different native plants, can attract an array of different species. Wattles, banksia, hardenbergia, native peas, and flowering annuals can prove popular for native weevils.
Some native weevils have adapted to feed from common garden weeds. A diverse garden with native plants can attract predators (including birds) to control any unruly weevil species.
Providing sources of water
Not required.
ReWild Benefits
Not all weevils are pests. Many weevils are pollinators within the garden, creating a more connected ecosystem. If you see one in your backyard, you can record your sighting on the Atlas of Living Australia and help scientists monitor there population and distribution.