Carpet Beetle (likely Varied Carpet Beetle or Black Carpet Beetle)

Natural Habitat

Carpet beetles are found worldwide. Indoors, they infest homes, museums, and warehouses, seeking out dark, undisturbed areas. Outdoors, they can be found in bird nests, animal carcasses, and spider webs.

Diet & Feeding

Larvae feed on a wide variety of animal products, including wool, fur, feathers, silk, leather, and dried animal remains. They can also feed on dried plant materials, cereals, and pet food. Adults feed on pollen and nectar.

Behavior Patterns

The larval stage is the destructive stage, causing damage to textiles and other goods. Larvae are often hairy or bristly and avoid light. Adults are attracted to light and are often found near windows. Females lay eggs on suitable food sources. The life cycle can take several months to a year, depending on environmental conditions.

Risks & Benefits

Risks: Carpet beetles are considered pests as their larvae can cause significant damage to household goods, clothing, carpets, and museum specimens. They do not bite or transmit diseases. Benefits: In natural environments, they play a role in decomposition by consuming animal remains.

Identified on: 9/17/2025