Carpet Beetle

Natural Habitat

Found indoors in homes, warehouses, and museums; outdoors in bird nests or on flowering plants.

Diet & Feeding

Larvae feed on natural fibers like wool, silk, and feathers, as well as dried food; adults feed on pollen and nectar.

Behavior Patterns

Larvae are scavengers and move slowly; adults are attracted to light and are often seen near windows in the spring.

Risks & Benefits

They are a common household pest that can damage carpets, clothing, and upholstery; they do not bite humans, though larval hairs can cause skin irritation.

Identified on: 6/19/2026