Carpet Beetle

Inhabits indoor environments such as homes, warehouses, and museums, as well as outdoor environments like gardens and bird nests.

Larvae feed on protein-rich animal products like wool, fur, feathers, silk, and dead insects; adults feed primarily on pollen and nectar.

Larvae are scavengers that prefer dark, secluded areas where they can feed undisturbed; adults are attracted to light and are often found near windows.

Larvae can damage household items and textiles; some people may experience allergic reactions to larval hairs ('creeping eruption' or dermatitis). They serve as natural decomposers in the wild.