Carpet Beetle

Natural Habitat

Indoors, commonly found in homes, museums, and warehouses; outdoors, in bird nests, animal carcasses, and dried plants.

Diet & Feeding

Larvae feed on natural fibers like wool, silk, fur, feathers, and dried animal products (e.g., dead insects, pet food, leather, museum specimens). Adult beetles feed on pollen and nectar.

Behavior Patterns

Larvae are destructive scavengers, preferring dark, undisturbed areas. They are often found under carpets, in closets, or inside drawers. Adults are attracted to light and often found near windows. Life cycle includes egg, larva, pupa, and adult stages, with larvae being the damaging stage.

Risks & Benefits

Potential risks include significant damage to textiles, clothing, carpets, upholstered furniture, and museum collections. They are considered household pests. Rarely, larvae bristles can cause skin irritation or allergic reactions in sensitive individuals. No significant benefits to humans directly, but they contribute to decomposition in natural environments.

Identified on: 9/10/2025