Carpet Beetle (likely Varied Carpet Beetle or Black Carpet Beetle)

Natural Habitat

Indoors, especially in undisturbed areas, closets, attics, rugs, upholstered furniture, often associated with natural fibers (wool, silk, fur, feathers) and stored food products.

Diet & Feeding

Adults feed on pollen and nectar; larvae feed on a wide range of organic materials including wool, silk, fur, feathers, leather, dried meat, pet food, stored grains, and dead insects. They do not feed on synthetic fibers.

Behavior Patterns

Larvae are the damaging stage, often found in dark, undisturbed places. They are slow-moving and tend to curl up when disturbed. Adults are attracted to light and may be found near windows. They undergo complete metamorphosis (egg, larva, pupa, adult).

Risks & Benefits

Potential risks include damage to textiles, carpets, clothing, museum specimens, and stored pantry items, leading to significant economic loss. They generally pose no direct health risk to humans, though some people may experience skin irritation from larval hairs. No direct benefits to humans, but play a role in decomposition in natural environments.

Identified on: 11/3/2025