Carpet Beetle

Natural Habitat

They are often found indoors, particularly in areas with natural fibers such as carpets, rugs, furniture, clothing, and stored food products. Outdoors, they can be found in bird nests, animal carcasses, and dried plants.

Diet & Feeding

Larvae feed on natural fibers like wool, silk, fur, feathers, and dried animal products (e.g., dead insects, pet food). Adult carpet beetles primarily feed on pollen and nectar.

Behavior Patterns

Carpet beetles undergo complete metamorphosis (egg, larva, pupa, adult). The larvae are the damaging stage, actively feeding on organic materials. Adults are attracted to light and are often found near windows. They are typically slow-moving and are often discovered when cleaning or inspecting infested items.

Risks & Benefits

Potential risks include damage to textiles, clothing, carpets, and stored food products, leading to economic loss. They do not bite humans or transmit diseases. There are generally no direct benefits associated with their presence in human environments, though outdoors, they play a minor role in decomposition.

Identified on: 9/16/2025