Black Carpet Beetle

Natural Habitat

Commonly found indoors in carpets, closets, upholstered furniture, and pantries; outdoors in bird or rodent nests.

Diet & Feeding

Larvae feed on animal products like wool, silk, feathers, hair, and dried plant proteins. Adults feed on pollen and nectar.

Behavior Patterns

They undergo complete metamorphosis. Larvae avoid light and are the primary source of damage to textiles. Adults are attracted to light and are often seen near windows.

Risks & Benefits

A significant household pest that can damage natural fibers and stored food. They do not bite humans but can cause skin irritation or 'carpet beetle dermatitis' in sensitive individuals due to larval hairs.

Identified on: 1/2/2026