Carpet Beetles
Carpet beetles are small, rounded beetles whose larvae feed on a wide range of animal-based materials including wool, silk, leather, fur, feathers, dried pet food, and dead insects. The varied carpet beetle, furniture carpet beetle, and black carpet beetle are the most common species. Adults are small, patterned beetles that feed on pollen and are often found on windowsills. Larvae are the damaging stage, identifiable by their elongated, bristly-haired bodies. They are the most destructive insect pest of museum collections, taxidermy, and textile storage.
Species in This Group (0)
Key Behaviors
Carpet beetle larvae feed in dark, undisturbed areas including under furniture, along baseboards, in closets, and inside air ducts. They are attracted to accumulations of pet hair, lint, dead insects, and stored wool or silk. Adults are found on flowers and windowsills and commonly enter homes through open windows and doors. Infestations often begin when larvae find a food source such as a forgotten wool sweater, pet hair accumulation, or dead insect cache in a wall void.
Risks & Concerns
Carpet beetle larvae damage wool carpets, clothing, upholstered furniture, taxidermy mounts, museum specimens, and stored textiles. Larval hairs can cause skin irritation and allergic reactions in some individuals. They are the most significant pest of natural history museums and textile collections worldwide. In homes, damage to valued clothing, rugs, and heirloom textiles can be irreplaceable. Regular cleaning and proper textile storage are essential prevention measures.
Need Help With Carpet beetles?
If you're seeing signs of carpet beetles in or around your home, professional treatment is the fastest way to stop the problem. Lotus Pest Control offers free inspections to identify the issue and recommend the right solution.