Carpet Beetle

Natural Habitat

Commonly found indoors in homes, warehouses, and museums; outdoors in bird or rodent nests.

Diet & Feeding

Larvae eat animal-based natural fibers (wool, silk, fur, feathers) and stored grain; adults feed on pollen and nectar.

Behavior Patterns

Larvae are the primary scavengers and damage-causers; adults are attracted to light and are often seen near windows during spring.

Risks & Benefits

They do not bite humans but are significant pests of household fabrics and carpets. Larval hairs can cause allergic skin reactions (carpet beetle dermatitis) in sensitive individuals.

Identified on: 6/3/2026