Carpet Beetle (likely Varied Carpet Beetle or Furniture Carpet Beetle)

Natural Habitat

Indoors, commonly found in homes, museums, and storage areas. Larvae feed on natural fibers found in carpets, woolens, furs, taxidermy, stored food products, and insect collections.

Diet & Feeding

Adults feed on pollen and nectar. Larvae are scavengers and feed on natural fibers, keratin-containing products (like hair, fur, feathers), dried animal products, and some stored food items.

Behavior Patterns

Adult carpet beetles are often attracted to light and may be found near windows. Larvae prefer dark, undisturbed areas. They undergo complete metamorphosis (egg, larva, pupa, adult). The larval stage is the destructive stage. They are generally slow-moving.

Risks & Benefits

Potential risks include damage to household items made of natural fibers (carpets, clothing, furniture, furs), museum specimens, and pantry items. They do not bite humans but can cause allergic reactions in some individuals due to their hairs. No significant benefits are associated with their presence in homes.

Identified on: 11/19/2025