Bug Identifier
Larder Beetle
Community identification

Larder Beetle

Dermestes lardarius

Order & Family
Order Coleoptera, Family Dermestidae
Size
7 to 9 millimeters (0.28 to 0.35 inches)
See this bug in the Encyclopedia

Natural Habitat

Indoors in pantries, kitchens, and warehouses; outdoors in bird nests or where animal remains are present.

Diet & Feeding

Scavengers that feed on high-protein animal products such as dried meats, cheese, pet food, feathers, and dead insects.

Behavior Patterns

They are active year-round indoors. Larvae are the primary feeders and can bore into wood or mortar to pupate; adults are often seen near light sources.

Risks & Benefits

They are nuisance pests that can contaminate stored food and damage animal-based materials like wool or taxidermy. They are not harmful to humans or pets directly.