
Community identification
Larder Beetle (Larva)
Dermestes lardarius
- Order & Family
- Order Coleoptera, Family Dermestidae
- Size
- Larvae range from 1 to 12 mm in length.
Natural Habitat
Pantries, warehouses, bird nests, and museum collections; anywhere with high-protein organic matter.
Diet & Feeding
Scavengers that consume animal products like cured meats, dried fish, pet food, cheese, animal hides, and feathers.
Behavior Patterns
The larvae are active crawlers that seek out food sources; they are known for boring into soft wood, cork, or insulation to create a pupation chamber.
Risks & Benefits
A common pest that can damage food supplies and stored animal products; beneficial in nature for recycling organic debris.