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

Natural Habitat

Indoors, especially in undisturbed areas such as under carpets, rugs, furniture, in closets, pantries, and attics. They prefer dark, dry places. Outdoors, adults can be found on flowering plants.

Diet & Feeding

Larvae primarily feed on animal products and natural fibers, including wool, silk, fur, feathers, leather, pet food, dried meats, museum specimens (e.g., preserved insects, animal hides), and food crumbs. Adults feed on pollen and nectar from flowers.

Behavior Patterns

Carpet beetle larvae are typically found in dark, undisturbed areas where food sources are plentiful. They are slow-moving and avoid light. Adults are attracted to light and often found near windows, moving towards flowers for nectar and pollen. The larvae are the destructive stage, not the adults. They undergo complete metamorphosis.

Risks & Benefits

Risks: Carpet beetle larvae can cause significant damage to household items made of natural fibers, including clothing, carpets, upholstered furniture, and museum collections. Some individuals may develop allergic reactions (dermatitis or respiratory irritation) to the larval hairs. Benefits: In nature, they play a role as scavengers, breaking down organic matter. However, their presence indoors is generally considered a pest issue.

Identified on: 8/12/2025