Carpet beetle (likely Black Carpet Beetle)

Natural Habitat

Indoors, especially in areas with undisturbed animal products such as carpets, woolens, furs, taxidermy, stored foods, and pet food. Outdoors, they can be found in nests of birds and mammals.

Diet & Feeding

Larvae feed on animal products high in protein, such as wool, silk, feathers, leather, fur, pet dander, dead insects, and stored dry foods (rice, pasta, flour). Adult beetles feed on pollen and nectar outdoors but typically do not feed indoors.

Behavior Patterns

Larvae are the destructive stage, typically found in dark, undisturbed areas. They are slow-moving and often curl into a C-shape when disturbed. Adults are attracted to light and are often seen near windows. They undergo complete metamorphosis (egg, larva, pupa, adult).

Risks & Benefits

Potential risks include damage to personal property (clothing, carpets, furniture) and stored food products. They can be considered pests in homes and museums. There are generally no direct benefits to humans, though they play a role in decomposition in natural ecosystems.

Identified on: 9/17/2025