Carpet Beetle (likely Black Carpet Beetle)

Natural Habitat

Typically found indoors in dry areas, residing in carpets, upholstered furniture, closets, baseboards, and stored natural fabric items like wool or fur.

Diet & Feeding

Adults feed on pollen and nectar outdoors; larvae feed on keratin-rich dry organic materials such as wool, silk, fur, felt, feathers, dead insects, pet hair, and dried food products.

Behavior Patterns

Adults are attracted to light and often found near windowsills. They lay eggs near food sources where the hairy larvae will feed in dark, undisturbed areas. They move slowly and can fly.

Risks & Benefits

Generally harmless to humans (no biting or stinging), but larvae can cause skin irritation or dermatitis in some people. They are significant household pests, capable of causing extensive damage to carpets, clothing, and upholstered furniture.

Identified on: 2/21/2026