Larder Beetle

Natural Habitat

Commonly found in households, warehouses, and pantries where animal-based products or dried foods are stored. Natural habitats include bird nests and animal dens.

Diet & Feeding

Scavenger that feeds on high-protein organic materials such as dried meats, pet food, cheese, feathers, furs, dead insects, and animal hides.

Behavior Patterns

Adults are nocturnal and attracted to light. Females lay up to 150 eggs near a food source; larvae are active crawlers known for boring into soft wood or insulation to pupate.

Risks & Benefits

Common pest of stored goods and pantry items. While they do not bite humans, they can damage animal-derived fabrics (wool, silk) and wood structures through larval boring. They serve an ecosystem benefit by breaking down animal remains in nature.

Identified on: 5/11/2026