Carpet Beetle (specifically Black Carpet Beetle)

Found worldwide, commonly indoors in homes, museums, and warehouses. They thrive in dark, undisturbed areas like closets, attics, under rugs, and in air ducts.

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.

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: 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.