Carpet Beetle

Natural Habitat

Indoors within homes, specifically in carpets, upholstery, closets, and air ducts. Outdoors on flowering plants.

Diet & Feeding

Larvae scavenge on natural fibers such as wool, silk, fur, feathers, and dead insects. Adults feed primarily on pollen and nectar.

Behavior Patterns

Adults are attracted to light and are often found near windows. They go through complete metamorphosis; the larval stage is the destructive phase, often hiding in dark, undisturbed areas.

Risks & Benefits

They do not bite or spread disease, but can cause significant damage to household fabrics and stored goods. Some people may experience 'carpet beetle dermatitis' (an itchy rash) from contact with the hairs of the larvae.

Identified on: 1/11/2026