Carpet Beetle

Natural Habitat

Carpet beetles are commonly found indoors, particularly in areas with natural fibers such as carpets, rugs, woolen clothing, furs, feather products, and upholstered furniture. They can also be found in pantries feeding on stored food products, and in museums on preserved specimens.

Diet & Feeding

Larvae of carpet beetles feed on natural fibers, animal products, and stored dry food items. This includes wool, silk, fur, feathers, leather, dead insects, pet food, cereals, and grains. Adult beetles primarily feed on pollen and nectar outdoors.

Behavior Patterns

Larvae are the damaging stage, often found in dark, undisturbed areas. They are slow-moving and tend to avoid light. Adults are typically attracted to light and often found near windows. They can fly and often enter homes from outdoors. The life cycle can range from two months to over a year, depending on conditions and species.

Risks & Benefits

Potential risks include significant household damage to textiles, clothing, and stored food products. They do not bite humans or transmit diseases. Benefits are negligible in a household setting, but larvae can act as decomposers in natural environments by consuming animal remains.

Identified on: 9/5/2025