Maggots are the larval stage of flies and are often found in decaying organic matter. While maggots play an important role in decomposition, no one wants to find them in their home. There are a few things that can be mistaken for maggots if you spot something small and white wriggling around.
Rice
Uncooked rice grains can resemble maggots. If you spill some rice and it gets wet, the grains may start to swell and move around, looking like they’re alive. The movement comes from the starch absorbing water and expanding. So if you see some squirming white grains, it could just be wet rice.
Mealworms
Mealworms are the larval form of the mealworm beetle. They are often used as pet food and fishing bait. Mealworms look very similar to maggots – they are white, segmented, and wiggle around. However, mealworms are typically a bit bigger and darker in color than fly maggots.
Grain Weevils
Grain weevils are small beetles that can infest stored grains like rice, wheat, oats, etc. The larvae are tiny, less than 1/4 inch long, and white in color. With their small size and wriggling movement, grain weevil larvae can be mistaken for maggots by the unsuspecting eye.
Cheese Mites
Cheese mites are microscopic bugs that feed on cheese and can cause it to spoil. On moldy cheese, cheese mites may be present in large numbers, visible as tiny white dots. With the naked eye, a cluster of cheese mites can resemble a mass of maggots. Checking with a magnifying glass will reveal their true identity.
Potworms
Potworms, also known as white worms, are small segmented worms that feed on decaying organic matter. They live in compost and extremely moist environments. At a quick glance, potworms look like maggots wriggling through compost or wet soil. Their lighter color and lack of distinct head distinguishes them.
Miller Moths
Miller moths are a common household pest. The larvae are creamy white in color and about half an inch long when fully grown. When they gather in large groups to pupate, miller moth larvae can resemble maggots feeding on a surface.
Flour Beetles
Flour beetles are common pantry pests. The larvae are tiny, less than 1/8 inch long, and white. Larvae of the confused flour beetle especially resemble maggots. Check for distinct legs and harder body segments to differentiate beetle larvae from maggots.
Conclusion
Many small, white, wriggling creatures can be mistaken for maggots at first glance. Look for key differences like legs, body segmentation, size, and habitat to correctly identify the pest. Proper identification will lead to the right treatment plan to tackle an infestation. When in doubt, seek help from a professional exterminator.