
Community identification
Black Carpet Beetle
Attagenus unicolor
- Order & Family
- Order: Coleoptera, Family: Dermestidae
- Size
- Adults are 3 to 5 mm (0.12 to 0.20 inches) in length.
Natural Habitat
Commonly found inside homes in dark, undisturbed areas such as closets, under furniture, or behind baseboards.
Diet & Feeding
Adults feed on pollen and nectar; larvae feed on animal products like wool, fur, feathers, hair, and stored dry goods.
Behavior Patterns
Adults are often attracted to light and seen near windows; larvae are secretive, avoid light, and can take months to years to develop depending on food availability.
Risks & Benefits
The larvae are significant household pests that cause damage to clothing, upholstery, and stored foods. They do not bite humans but can cause skin irritation (dermatitis) in sensitive individuals.