Carpet Beetle

Natural Habitat

Carpet beetles are commonly found in homes, museums, and other buildings where they infest textiles, carpets, upholstered furniture, stored food products, and insect collections. Outdoors, they can be found in bird and rodent nests.

Diet & Feeding

Larvae of carpet beetles feed on a variety of animal-derived products, including wool, silk, feathers, leather, furs, pet hair, dried meats, museum specimens, and lint. Adult carpet beetles primarily feed on nectar and pollen.

Behavior Patterns

Carpet beetles undergo complete metamorphosis with egg, larval, pupal, and adult stages. The larval stage is responsible for most of the damage. Larvae are often found in dark, undisturbed areas. Adults are typically attracted to light and can be found near windows. They are slow-moving and often play dead when disturbed.

Risks & Benefits

Potential risks include damage to personal belongings (clothing, carpets, furniture) and stored products. Some people may also experience skin irritation or allergic reactions due to contact with larval hairs. In nature, they act as scavengers, breaking down organic matter.

Identified on: 8/12/2025