What Are Those Tiny Black Bugs in My Kitchen?

You’re making breakfast when you spot a trail of tiny black bugs across your counter. They’re not ants… or are they? You clean the area, but the next morning—there they are again.

If you’ve been noticing small black bugs in your kitchen, you’re not alone. In the Twin Cities, there are a few common culprits—and figuring out which one you’re dealing with is key to stopping them for good.

Most Likely Suspects in MN Kitchens

1. Pavement Ants

• Often found trailing near sinks, baseboards, and floor cracks

• Small (⅛ inch), dark brown to black

• Typically looking for crumbs or sweet spills

2. Phorid Flies

• Resemble fruit flies, but darker and smaller

• Hover near drains, trash, or rotting organic matter

• Can breed in garbage disposals or overwatered plants

3. Carpet Beetle Larvae

• Tiny, slow-moving, and often fuzzy or striped

• Found in corners or near dry goods (cereal, flour)

• Can cause damage to fabrics or pantry items

4. Grain Beetles or Weevils

• Often brought in through dry goods like pasta or rice

• May appear suddenly in large numbers in cupboards

• Small, narrow bodies—usually black or reddish-brown

What You Can Do

• Deep clean food storage areas and check for expired or infested items

• Seal up cracks and entry points around windows, doors, and baseboards

• Fix moisture issues—many pests thrive in damp environments

• Call in a professional if you see bugs daily or in multiple places

Don’t Let Tiny Pests Turn Into a Big Problem

If you’re seeing bugs in your kitchen and can’t identify the source, Be There Pest Control can help. We offer fast, local service with environmentally responsible solutions to keep your home pest-free year-round.

📞 Call (612) 448-3854 now to request a consultation or initial appointment. We’ll help you get your kitchen back under control.