Carpet beetle

Natural Habitat

Indoors, especially in areas with animal products, dust, and food debris. Can also be found outdoors in nests of insects, birds, and in flowers.

Diet & Feeding

Larvae feed on a variety of animal and plant products, including wool, silk, feathers, fur, leather, dried meat, museum specimens, taxidermy, and occasionally stored grains. Adults feed on pollen and nectar.

Behavior Patterns

Larvae are typically found in dark, undisturbed areas. They molt several times, leaving behind shed skins. Adults are often seen near windows as they are attracted to light, or in flowers outdoors. They are known for remaining dormant for extended periods if food is scarce.

Risks & Benefits

Potential risks include damage to fabrics, carpets, clothing, museum collections, and stored food products. They can cause minor skin irritation or allergic reactions in sensitive individuals due to their larval hairs. They are not known to spread diseases. Benefits are minimal but they can act as scavengers, breaking down organic materials in natural environments.

Identified on: 9/5/2025