Common Museum Pests (8 of 10)
Other insects and animals (continued)
Animals indirectly causing problems
In addition to the pests that damage objects directly, there are some animals and insects that cause indirect damage to collections, by providing a food source and home for the other more significant museum pests.
Birds
Bird nests in the fabric of the building are ideal places for certain types of insect, such as the cigarette beetle (Stegobium paniceum), as they provide a food source and a suitable living environment.
Spiders, flies and other beetles
Dead insects caught in spider webs, clutter and light fittings provide a food source for museum pests – as do dead spiders and other dead insects, such as flies and beetles.
