Black Carpet Beetle

Natural Habitat

Indoors, larvae are found in dark, undisturbed areas such as closets, attics, under furniture, in cracks and crevices, and within stored items like clothing, carpets, and upholstered furniture. Outdoors, adults are found on flowers.

Diet & Feeding

Larvae feed on a variety of animal-based products including wool, fur, feathers, silk, animal hides, dried meats, pet food, and dead insects. Adults feed on pollen and nectar from flowering plants.

Behavior Patterns

Carpet beetles undergo complete metamorphosis. The larvae are the destructive stage, feeding on natural fibers for several months before pupating. Adults are attracted to light and often found near windows; they feed on pollen and nectar outdoors and do not cause damage indoors. They are known for 'playing dead' when disturbed.

Risks & Benefits

Risks: Black carpet beetles are considered pests as their larvae can cause significant damage to natural fiber products, including clothing, carpets, and museum specimens. They do not bite humans or transmit diseases. Benefits: As scavengers, they play a minor role in decomposition, especially consuming dried animal matter.

Identified on: 8/25/2025