Black Carpet Beetle

Commonly found indoors in homes, warehouses, and museums, especially in dark, undisturbed areas like under carpets, along baseboards, in closets, and in air ducts where lint and hair accumulate. Adults may be found near windows as they are attracted to light.

Larvae feed on natural fibers of animal origin, such as wool, fur, silk, feathers, and leather. They also consume shed pet hair, dead insects, and stored food products like grains, spices, and pet food. Adults primarily feed on flower pollen and nectar outdoors.

Adults are capable fliers and are drawn to light, often entering structures in the spring. Females lay eggs in secluded locations near a food source. The larval stage is the longest and most destructive part of their life cycle. Larvae avoid light and will molt several times before pupating.

The primary risk is damage to property. The larvae chew holes in items made of natural fibers, including carpets, clothing, upholstery, and taxidermy mounts. They do not bite humans or pets, but the stiff hairs on the larvae can cause an allergic reaction or skin irritation in sensitive individuals. They are considered a common household pest with no significant benefits in a domestic environment.