Carpet Beetle

Natural Habitat

Commonly found indoors in homes, museums, and warehouses within carpets, upholstered furniture, closets, and wall voids.

Diet & Feeding

Adults feed mostly on pollen and nectar. Larvae feed on natural fibers, feathers, fur, hair, dried pet food, and dead insects.

Behavior Patterns

Adults are attracted to light and often found near windows. Their life cycle involves complete metamorphosis (egg, larva, pupa, adult); the larval stage is the most destructive and can last for months.

Risks & Benefits

Risks: Larvae can damage household items made of natural fibers like wool or silk. Exposure to larval hairs (setae) can cause allergic skin reactions or respiratory irritation in some people. Benefits: In the wild, they act as scavengers by breaking down organic debris.

Identified on: 4/16/2026