Carpet Beetle (Adult)

Indoors within homes, carpets, upholstered furniture, closets, attics, and outdoors on flowering plants

Adults feed on plant pollen and nectar. Larvae feed on organic animal matter like wool, fur, feathers, silk, dead insects, and pet hair.

Adult beetles are attracted to light and are often found near windows. They lay eggs in dark, undisturbed areas where organic debris accumulates. Larvae avoid light and slowly consume natural fibers.

Pest risk: Larvae can cause severe damage to household natural fabrics, carpets, clothing, and taxidermy. They do not bite humans, but larval hair bristles can cause allergic reactions or skin irritation (carpet beetle dermatitis). Benefits: Outdoors, adults act as minor pollinators.