
Community identification
Larder Beetle
Dermestes lardarius
- Order & Family
- Order Coleoptera, Family Dermestidae
- Size
- 7 to 9 millimeters (0.28 to 0.35 inches)
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.