Carpet Beetle

Natural Habitat

Carpet beetles are found worldwide in human dwellings, museums, and storage facilities, where they have access to their food sources. Outdoors, they can be found in nests of birds and mammals, as well as in dried flowers or pollen.

Diet & Feeding

While various species feed on different organic matter, common indoor carpet beetles (like those from the genera Anthrenus or Trogoderma) feed on animal products such as wool, fur, feathers, silk, leather, and dried animal remains. Some also feed on dried plant material, cereals, and pet food.

Behavior Patterns

Dermestidae beetles undergo complete metamorphosis (egg, larva, pupa, adult). Larvae are typically the destructive stage, feeding on various organic materials. Adults are often active fliers and are attracted to light. Their presence indoors usually indicates a food source.

Risks & Benefits

Risks: Can be significant pests in homes, museums, and warehouses, causing damage to textiles, carpets, clothing, furs, and stored food products. Some people may also experience allergic reactions to the larval hairs. Benefits: In natural environments, they play a role in decomposition, helping to recycle organic matter. For forensic entomology, certain species are indicators in post-mortem interval estimations.

Identified on: 7/2/2025