Larder beetle

Natural Habitat

Typically found indoors in pantries, kitchens, or near dead animal matter. Outdoors, they can be found in bird nests or among carrion.

Diet & Feeding

Scavengers that consume animal-based protein. Common food sources include dried meat, fish, cheese, feathers, fur, dead insects, and pet food.

Behavior Patterns

They are known for their ability to digest keratin and collagen. Larvae are active crawlers and may bore into wood or soft materials to pupate after feeding.

Risks & Benefits

Generally considered a household pest as they can damage stored food products and hides. While they do not bite humans, their larval hairs can cause skin irritation or allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.

Identified on: 3/23/2026