Larder Beetle

Natural Habitat

Found indoors in pantries, kitchens, and food storage areas, as well as outdoors in bird/mammal nests or near animal carcasses.

Diet & Feeding

Larvae and adults feed on high-protein animal products including dried meats, leather, pet food, cheese, feathers, and dead insects.

Behavior Patterns

They are scavengers that undergo complete metamorphosis; they are known for boring into soft wood or insulation to create pupation chambers, which can cause structural damage.

Risks & Benefits

They are significant structural and pantry pests that can contaminate stored food and damage animal-based household items; they serve an ecosystem benefit by aiding in the decomposition of animal remains.

Identified on: 6/6/2026