Carpet Beetle

Scientific Name: Attagenus unicolor

Order & Family: Order: Coleoptera; Family: Dermestidae

Size: 3 to 5 mm in length

Carpet Beetle

Natural Habitat

Commonly found indoors in homes, warehouses, and nesting in bird or rodent nests outdoors.

Diet & Feeding

Larvae feed on animal-based materials like wool, silk, fur, feathers, and dry pet food; adults feed on pollen and nectar.

Behavior Patterns

Adults are attracted to light and are often found near windows; they undergo complete metamorphosis from egg to larva to pupa to adult.

Risks & Benefits

Can be a significant household pest by damaging fabrics and stored goods; some individuals may experience skin irritation or 'creeping eruption' from contact with larval hairs.

Identified on: 6/5/2026