Carpet Beetle (likely Black Carpet Beetle)

Natural Habitat

Indoors, especially in undisturbed areas under carpets, rugs, upholstered furniture, in closets, museums, and food storage areas. Outdoors, they can be found in bird nests, animal remains, and insect nests.

Diet & Feeding

Larvae feed on a wide range of animal-derived products, including wool, silk, fur, feathers, leather, dead insects, pet hair, and dried meats. Adults primarily feed on pollen and nectar outdoors but can be found indoors.

Behavior Patterns

Carpet beetle larvae are typically found in dark, undisturbed areas. They are slow-moving and avoid light. Adults are often attracted to light and may be found near windows. The larvae are the destructive stage, causing damage to natural fibers and stored products. The life cycle can take several months to a year, depending on conditions and species.

Risks & Benefits

Risks: Can cause significant damage to household items made of natural fibers (carpets, clothing, furniture), stored food products, and museum collections. Some people may experience allergic reactions to the larval hairs. Benefits: In nature, they play a role as scavengers, breaking down dead organic matter. In a household, they are generally considered pests due to their destructive feeding habits.

Identified on: 9/24/2025