Black Carpet Beetle
The black carpet beetle is the most destructive and
abundant of the so-called carpet beetles. This beetle is
cosmopolitan in distribution. It is widespread and common
in Michigan.
The adult black carpet beetle is small (3-mm or 3/16
inch) with an elongate-oval body. It is dark brown to
black, with a covering of short black hairs. In the
spring, the adults are attracted to flowers where they
feed on pollen, congregate, and mate. After mating, the
female will search for a suitable place to lay her eggs.
In nature the eggs are laid in animal nests where the
larvae feed on feathers, hair and other debris. These
beetles become pests when the adults enter houses and lay
eggs. In houses the eggs are deposited in accumulations
of lint, in floor crevices, behind baseboards, and in
heating ducts.
The full-grown larvae are small (6mm), carrot-shaped,
and moderately hairy with a long slender brush of hairs
at the tip of the abdomen. Larvae are reclusive,
preferring to remain in dark, out-of-the-way places like
closets, stacks of seldom-disturbed clothing and fabrics,
upholstered furniture and carpet edges (especially where
it is tucked under baseboards or heat registers). Larvae
require 9 months to 3 years to complete their
development, depending on temperature, humidity, and
availability of food. Mature larvae are great wanderers
and may be found in many areas of the home. They
frequently turn up in sinks and tubs where they become
stranded. This activity is most prevalent in the fall,
winter and early spring. Pupation requires 6 to 24 days.
The entire life cycle from egg to adult, therefore,
requires anywhere from 6 months to 3 years for
completion, although 1 year is most common.
Black carpet beetles are general scavengers, and all
economic damage is caused by the larvae. They are known
to infest dead animal materials, hair, fur, bristles,
feathers, hides, leather, horns, woolens, silk, felt,
burlap, lint, insulation, books, bird and rodent nests,
flour, spices, cereals, grains, seeds, rice, nuts,
spices, and pet foods. In addition to directly damaging
foodstuffs they also bore through cardboard packaging and
provide entry ways for other kitchen pests like grain
beetles, flour beetles and meal moths.
For a complete listing of suggested control options
for all home, yard and garden insect pests contact your
local Extension Service, found under local government in
the phone book.
Read and follow instructions on the pesticide label.
Heed all warnings. Check with your physician if you have
any concerns regarding your personal health risk.