Carpet Beetle

Natural Habitat

Indoors, commonly found in homes, museums, and warehouses. Outdoors, found in nests of birds and insects.

Diet & Feeding

Larvae feed on natural fibers such as wool, silk, fur, feathers, and dried animal products (e.g., dead insects, pet food). Adults feed on pollen and nectar.

Behavior Patterns

Larvae are destructive pests, feeding on keratin and textiles. They prefer dark, undisturbed areas. Adults are attracted to light and may be found near windows. Life cycle involves egg, larva, pupa, and adult stages, with larvae being the damaging stage.

Risks & Benefits

Potential risks include significant damage to stored textiles, carpets, clothing, and museum specimens. Can cause skin irritations (dermatitis) in sensitive individuals due to larval hairs. No known benefits to humans or the ecosystem in an indoor setting.

Identified on: 9/10/2025