Carpet Beetle

Natural Habitat

Commonly found indoors in homes, specifically in carpets, upholstered furniture, closets, and along baseboards. Outdoors, they are found on pollen-bearing plants.

Diet & Feeding

Adults feed on pollen and nectar. Larvae (the damaging stage) feed on organic fibers such as wool, silk, fur, feathers, hair, and dried food products.

Behavior Patterns

Adults are often attracted to light and may be found near windows. They undergo a complete metamorphosis (egg, larva, pupa, adult). Larvae prefer dark, undisturbed locations and can survive for long periods without food.

Risks & Benefits

Adults are harmless but their presence indicates potential larval activity. Larvae are domestic pests that can damage clothing, rugs, and upholstery. Some people may experience an allergic reaction (dermatitis) to the shed skins and hairs of the larvae.

Identified on: 3/21/2026