Carpet beetle (likely Black carpet beetle or Varied carpet beetle)

Natural Habitat

Indoors, especially in undisturbed areas such as closets, attics, under furniture, along baseboards, and in stored items. They can also be found outdoors in nests of birds or rodents, or feeding on dead insects.

Diet & Feeding

Larvae feed on a wide variety of animal products, including wool, silk, feathers, fur, leather, dried meat, dead insects, and pet food. Adults feed on pollen and nectar outdoors.

Behavior Patterns

Larvae are the destructive stage, causing damage to fabrics and stored goods. They are often found in dark, secluded areas. Adults are typically attracted to light and may be seen near windows. They undergo complete metamorphosis.

Risks & Benefits

Risks: Can cause significant damage to natural fibers (wool, silk, etc.), carpets, clothing, museum specimens, and stored foods. Some people may experience allergic reactions to their bristles. Benefits: As scavengers, they play a minor role in breaking down organic matter in nature.

Identified on: 10/1/2025