Black Carpet Beetle

Scientific Name: Attagenus unicolor

Order & Family: Coleoptera; Dermestidae

Size: 3 to 5 mm (0.12 to 0.20 inches)

Black Carpet Beetle

Natural Habitat

Found indoors in pantry areas, closets, and storage bins, as well as outdoors in bird and rodent nests.

Diet & Feeding

Larvae feed on natural fibers like wool, silk, and feathers, as well as dried food products. Adults feed on pollen and nectar.

Behavior Patterns

Larvae are the primary scavengers and damage-causers; adults are often attracted to light and can be found near windows. They undergo a complete metamorphosis.

Risks & Benefits

Significant pest to household goods like clothing and rugs; can cause allergic reactions (dermatitis) in some humans. They act as decomposers in nature.

Identified on: 6/3/2026