Community identification
Larder Beetle
Dermestes lardarius
- Order & Family
- Order: Coleoptera; Family: Dermestidae
- Size
- 7 to 9 mm (approximately 1/3 inch) in length.
Natural Habitat
Indoors near food sources (pantries, kitchens) and outdoors in nests or near carrion.
Diet & Feeding
Scavengers that feed on high-protein animal products including dried meats, cheeses, feathers, fur, and dead insects.
Behavior Patterns
Night-active insects that lay eggs near food sources; larvae are known for boring into soft wood or plaster to pupate.
Risks & Benefits
Risks: Significant pest of stored food and can cause structural damage during pupation. Benefits: Act as natural decomposers in the wild by recycling animal matter.