Carpet beetle (likely varied carpet beetle or black carpet beetle)

Natural Habitat

Indoors, commonly found in homes, museums, and warehouses. Prefers dark, undisturbed areas such as under carpets, in closets, behind baseboards, and in stored items.

Diet & Feeding

Larvae feed on a wide variety of animal-derived products, including wool, silk, feathers, fur, leather, dead insects, pet food, and sometimes dried plant materials. Adult beetles typically feed on pollen and nectar outdoors.

Behavior Patterns

Larvae are the destructive stage, shunning light and moving slowly. They may roll into a ball when disturbed. Adults are attracted to light and often found near windows. Life cycle involves egg, larva, pupa, and adult stages, which can take several months to a year depending on conditions.

Risks & Benefits

Potential risks include damage to personal property (carpets, clothing, furniture, stored food items) and museum specimens. Some people may develop skin irritation or allergic reactions to the larval hairs. No known benefits from their indoor presence; they are primarily considered household pests.

Identified on: 9/26/2025