Carpet Beetle (specifically Black Carpet Beetle)
Scientific Name: Attagenus unicolor
Order & Family: Order: Coleoptera; Family: Dermestidae
Size: Adults range from 2.8 to 5 mm (1/8 to 3/16 inch) in length. They are oval-shaped and typically black or dark brown.
Natural Habitat
Found worldwide, commonly indoors in homes, museums, and warehouses. They thrive in dark, undisturbed areas like closets, attics, under rugs, and in air ducts.
Diet & Feeding
Larvae feed on keratin-based natural fibers such as wool, silk, fur, feathers, hair, and leather, as well as dead insects and dried food products (grains, pet food). Adults feed mostly on pollen and nectar.
Behavior Patterns
Adults are attracted to light and are often found near windows. However, the damaging larvae are photophobic (avoid light) and hide deep in fabrics or crevices. This beetle undergoes complete metamorphosis.
Risks & Benefits
Risks: Larvae are destructive pests that damage clothing, carpets, upholstered furniture, and museum specimens. Some people may develop allergic reactions (dermatitis) from the larvae's bristly hairs. Benefits: In nature, they help decompose dead animal matter.
Identified on: 2/26/2026