Larder Beetle

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.

Identified on: 5/21/2026