Carpet Beetle

Indoors within carpets, upholstered furniture, clothing, and pantries, as well as outdoors in bird nests or on flowering plants.

Larvae feed on natural animal fibers like wool, fur, feathers, and silk, as well as dried organic food matter; adults feed on flower pollen and nectar.

Larvae are slow-moving and avoid light, often hiding in dark undisturbed areas while feeding. Adults fly, are attracted to sunlight, and often gather near windows to escape outdoors.

Risks: Larvae can cause significant damage to household fabrics, clothing, rugs, and stored animal products. Their hairs can also cause minor skin irritations (carpet beetle dermatitis) or allergic reactions in sensitive individuals. Benefits: Outdoors, adults serve as minor pollinators.