Carpet Beetle (likely Varied Carpet Beetle or Black Carpet Beetle)

Natural Habitat

Indoors, especially in areas with textile products, natural fibers, stored food products, and accumulated dust/lint; also found outdoors in nests of birds and insects.

Diet & Feeding

Larvae feed on a variety of organic materials including natural fibers (wool, silk, fur, leather), dried animal products (dead insects, pet hair), and stored food products (grains, cereals). Adults feed on pollen and nectar, often found outdoors.

Behavior Patterns

Adults are attracted to light and may be found near windows. Females lay eggs on suitable larval food sources. Larvae are slow-moving and prefer dark, undisturbed areas. They are known for their destructive feeding on textiles and stored products. Their presence often indicates an issue with cleanliness or stored goods.

Risks & Benefits

Risks: Major household pests, capable of damaging carpets, clothing, furniture, and museum collections. Can contaminate stored food. Larval hairs can cause skin irritation in sensitive individuals. Benefits: In nature, they play a role in decomposition by feeding on dead organic matter.

Identified on: 9/9/2025