Dermestid Beetle (likely stored product or carpet beetle species)

Natural Habitat

Indoors, they are commonly found in pantries, closets, museums, warehouses, and homes where animal products or dried foods are stored. Outdoors, they can be found in nests of birds or mammals, or in association with carcasses.

Diet & Feeding

Dermestid beetles, especially their larvae, primarily feed on animal products such as dried meat, dead insects, animal hides, furs, wool, silk, feathers, and dried pet food. Some species are known to infest stored grains and plant-based products.

Behavior Patterns

Dermestid beetle larvae are typically found in dark, undisturbed areas where their food sources are abundant. They are scavenger insects, often found in association with animal products. The larvae are usually hairy and move slowly. Adult beetles are often attracted to light and may be found near windows. They undergo complete metamorphosis.

Risks & Benefits

Potential risks include infesting stored food products, damaging woolens, carpets, furs, and taxidermy collections. They can also cause allergic reactions in some sensitive individuals due to their hairs. Benefits include their role as decomposers in nature, cleaning up dead organic matter, and are sometimes used in museums for cleaning skeletons.

Identified on: 9/2/2025