Carpet Beetle

Natural Habitat

Commonly found indoors in homes, warehouses, and museums; outdoors in bird nests or on flowering plants.

Diet & Feeding

Adults feed on pollen and nectar. Larvae feed on organic materials including wool, silk, fur, feathers, hair, and dried food products.

Behavior Patterns

Adults are attracted to light and often found near windows. They go through a complete metamorphosis (egg, larva, pupa, adult), with the larval stage causing the most damage as they shy away from light and hide in dark crevices.

Risks & Benefits

They do not bite humans or pets, but they are significant pests that can damage household fabrics and stored goods. Some people may experience allergic reactions or skin irritation (dermatitis) from contact with the tiny hairs of the larvae.

Identified on: 4/3/2026