Carpet Beetle

Natural Habitat

Indoors: particularly in areas with natural fibers such as carpets, rugs, woolens, furs, taxidermy, stored food products, and even dried plants. Outdoors: found in spider webs, bird and rodent nests, and around dead insects.

Diet & Feeding

Larvae feed on natural fibers including wool, silk, fur, feathers, and dried animal products (like pet food, taxidermy). They can also feed on dried plant materials. Adult beetles feed on pollen and nectar from flowering plants.

Behavior Patterns

Larvae are the damaging stage, often found in dark, undisturbed areas. Adults are attracted to light and are commonly found near windows. They undergo complete metamorphosis (egg, larva, pupa, adult). The larval stage can last for several months to a year depending on conditions.

Risks & Benefits

Risks: Can cause significant damage to household items made of natural fibers, including clothing, carpets, and upholstered furniture. They do not bite humans but can cause allergic reactions in some individuals from their larval hairs. Benefits: In nature, they play a role in decomposition, feeding on dead animal remains.

Identified on: 9/6/2025