Black Carpet Beetle

Scientific Name: Attagenus unicolor

Order & Family: Order Coleoptera, Family Dermestidae

Size: 3 to 5 mm (0.12 to 0.2 inches) in length

Black Carpet Beetle

Natural Habitat

Commonly found in homes, apartments, and warehouses, particularly in pantries, closets, and under baseboards.

Diet & Feeding

As adults, they feed on pollen and nectar; as larvae, they consume animal-based fibers like wool, silk, leather, and dried food products.

Behavior Patterns

Adults are often seen on windowsills as they are attracted to light; larvae are slow-moving and tend to avoid light, living deep within materials.

Risks & Benefits

Can cause damage to clothing, upholstery, and carpets. They do not bite humans, but larval hairs can cause skin irritation or allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.

Identified on: 6/30/2026