Carpet Beetle
Scientific Name: Dermestidae (various genera, e.g., Anthrenus, Trogoderma, Attagenus)
Order & Family: Coleoptera (Beetles), Dermestidae (Skin Beetles)
Size: Adults typically range from 2 to 5 mm (0.08 to 0.2 inches) in length. Larvae are slightly larger, up to 5-6 mm, and are typically covered in bristles.
Natural Habitat
Carpet beetles are commonly found indoors, particularly in homes, museums, warehouses, and other buildings where natural fibers and dry animal products are present. They can also be found outdoors in birds' nests, animal burrows, and flower gardens.
Diet & Feeding
The larvae of carpet beetles feed on a variety of organic materials, including wool, silk, fur, feathers, leather, felt, animal hair, stored food products like dry pet food, cereals, and even museum specimens. Adult carpet beetles feed on pollen and nectar.
Behavior Patterns
Carpet beetle larvae are typically found in dark, undisturbed areas where their food sources are abundant, such as under furniture, in closets, or within carpets. They prefer to munch on natural fibers and animal products. Adults are attracted to light and are often found near windows. They are slow-moving and tend to play dead when disturbed. Their life cycle includes egg, larva, pupa, and adult stages, with the larval stage being the most destructive.
Risks & Benefits
Potential risks include significant damage to natural fiber textiles, carpets, clothing, upholstered furniture, and stored food products, leading to economic losses. They can also exacerbate allergies in sensitive individuals due to shed larval skins and fecal matter. They generally have no benefits to humans, but in natural ecosystems, they can act as decomposers by breaking down animal remains and plant material. However, in an indoor setting, they are considered pests.
Identified on: 8/14/2025