Carpet beetle

Natural Habitat

Indoors, especially in undisturbed areas under carpets, rugs, furniture, closets, and pantries. Outdoors, they can be found in bird nests, animal carcasses, and dried plant material.

Diet & Feeding

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

Behavior Patterns

Larvae are the destructive stage, moving slowly and preferring dark, undisturbed areas. Adults are winged and can fly, often attracted to light, and may be found near windows. They undergo complete metamorphosis.

Risks & Benefits

Risks: Can cause significant damage to household items like clothing, carpets, furniture, and museum specimens. Some people may experience allergic reactions to the larval hairs. Benefits: In nature, they play a role as scavengers, breaking down organic matter.

Identified on: 10/12/2025