Carpet Beetle (likely Varied Carpet Beetle or Black Carpet Beetle)

Natural Habitat

Indoors, commonly found in homes, museums, and warehouses. They prefer dark, undisturbed areas such as under carpets, in closets, behind baseboards, and in stored items made of natural fibers.

Diet & Feeding

Adult carpet beetles typically feed on pollen and nectar. Larvae, however, are scavengers and consume a wide range of animal and plant products, including wool, silk, fur, feathers, leather, dried meat, dead insects, pet food, and sometimes synthetic fibers if mixed with natural ones.

Behavior Patterns

Carpet beetles undergo complete metamorphosis. Adults are often found near windows as they are attracted to light to seek outdoor food sources (pollen). Larvae are cryptic, avoiding light, and cause damage to natural fibers. They shed their skin multiple times, and these shed skins can sometimes be confused with actual insects.

Risks & Benefits

Potential risks include damage to textiles, clothing, carpets, upholstered furniture, and stored foods containing animal products. Some people may develop allergic reactions or skin irritations from contact with the larval hairs. There are no significant benefits associated with carpet beetles in a household or indoor setting; in nature, they contribute to decomposition.

Identified on: 9/23/2025