Carpet Beetle

Commonly found in homes, particularly in carpets, upholstery, closets, and area rugs, as well as in bird and mammal nests in nature.

Adults feed on pollen and nectar. Larvae feed on animal-based materials such as wool, fur, feathers, hair, silk, and dead insects, as well as stored grains or dried pet food.

Adults are attracted to light and are often found near windows. The larvae are the damaging stage, secretive and preferring dark, undisturbed areas. They undergo several molts, leaving behind bristly shed skins.

They do not bite or spread disease, but their larvae can cause significant damage to natural textiles and stored goods. Larval hairs can also cause allergic reactions or skin irritation (dermatitis) in sensitive individuals.