Other Carpet Beetles
There are three other common species of carpet
beetles that can be found in Michigan homes: the common,
varied and furniture carpet beetles. The adults of these
three species are similar in appearance; the larvae are
nearly identical and difficult to tell apart. The adult
varied carpet beetle, is broadly oval and about 3 mm (1/8
inch) long. The upper surface is tricolored with a varied
pattern of white, brown and yellow scales on the back.
The larvae of this species are more rather wide in
proportion to the length, and are slightly wider at the
posterior end. They are about 7 mm (3/16 inch) long. In
addition they have very thick patches of hairs on the
sides of the abdomen near the posterior end. The larvae
can be found in flour and spices, as well as in woolens,
silk and other items of animal origin.
The length of the life cycle may vary quite a bit but
usually it takes about one year to develop from egg to
adult.
The adult common carpet beetle, looks similar to the
other carpet beetles, but can be distinguished easily by
the continuous series of bright brick red scales down the
center of the back (the inner margins of the two wing
covers).
The larvae look very similar to the varied carpet
beetle. The larvae can be found in places similar to
those in which the varied carpet beetle is found. The
life cycle may be as short as 2 1/2 months, or may take
up to a year or more.
The furniture carpet beetle, often attacks
upholstered furniture. The adult furniture carpet beetle
is very similar to the varied carpet beetle, being
covered with yellow and white scales, but the individual
scales are very broad. (Those on the varied carpet beetle
are very narrow.) While they are common on upholstered
furniture where they feed on hair, padding, feathers and
woolen fabric they also commonly feed on woolens,
carpets, fur, bristles, horns, and fabrics (wool, silk,
linen, cotton, rayon and jute) - especially if these are
stained with animal excreta or blood.
Integrated Carpet Beetle Management
The best way to combat carpet beetles is to prevent
them from becoming established in the home. The best
weapon is the vacuum cleaner. Rooms should be cleaned
often enough to prevent the accumulation of hair, lint
and other carpet beetle fodder. This is especially
important in households that have pets indoors.
Close attention should be given to carpets (especially
under furniture), rugs, draperies, upholstered furniture,
closets (especially where woolens and furs are stored),
heat radiators and registers and associated duct work,
corners, cracks, baseboards and moldings, and other
hard-to-reach areas. Open containers of dried foodstuff
and pet food should be regularly inspected for signs of
carpet beetles and discarded if contaminated.
Launder or dry clean clothing or fabrics that are
going to be stored for a period of time (e.g., woolens
stored for the summer and old drapery you just cannot
throw out until you try to unload it at next summer's
garage sale.)
If used properly, mothballs are effective in
protecting stored articles. Mothballs should be placed
between two pieces of paper and layered into the articles
being stored. Place layered articles in a chest or box
that can be sealed tightly. CAUTION: mothballs are known
to melt some plastics. They should not be used in
plastic bags and may damage plastic buttons.
Cedar chests a re only effective in preventing
carpet beetle damage if they can be sealed tightly.
CAUTION:cedar oil loses its repellent qualities
over time and chests will need to be recharged with a
coat of cedar oil periodically.
Remove and dispose of abandoned nests (birds, wasps
and hornets, squirrels) from eaves, wall voids and
attics. Follow up maintenance should be done to exclude
future nesting in these locations. If you have a cat that
hunts and brings its pre home to eat it, the remains
should be promptly disposed.
Controlling established infestations of carpet
beetles begins with a thorough inspection of the
premises to determine the extent of the problem. Next,
perform all of the sanitation and preventative measures
outlined above. This will eliminate food sources and most
of the life forms.
Application of an insecticide registered for
indoor use may be warranted to control an established
infestation in carpeting and upholstered furniture.
These items should be thoroughly cleaned before any
insecticide is applied. CAUTION: certain fabrics and
yes can be affected (staining or running) by certain
formulations of insecticides, so test a small, hidden
area with the product before applying it. The insecticide
should be applied as a fine mists to carpets. If the
furniture cannot be removed until the spray dries,
place a small piece of foil between furniture legs and
the carpet to prevent staining. IMPORTANT: great care
should be taken not to allow children and pets onto the
treated area before the insecticide has dried. Be sure to
read the insecticide label before using any pesticide and
follow all safety precautions stated on the label.
For a complete listing of suggested control option
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.