Black Carpet Beetle

Introduction

The black carpet beetle is the most commonly encountered and economically important of the carpet beetles. Its common name comes from its typical all-black color. This species has been cited with respect to allergic responses in humans. It is found throughout the United States, but more commonly east of the Rocky Mountains and in the northern states.

Recognition

Adults are about 1/8-1/4 inch long. Color dull dark brown to black. Antennae short, with three-segmented club, end/terminal segment at least as wide and as long as preceding two combined. In addition, body elongated-oval, head more or less concealed from above, with a median ocellus, and tarsi 5-5.5.

Larvae are up to about 1/4 inch long, carrot-shaped, tapering towards rear. Color light brown to black. Covered with golden brown to dark brown hairs laying flat on body; dorsal/upper surface lacks tufts of spear-headed hairs; rear end with long tuft of brown hairs nearly as long as body.

Habits

Black carpet beetle larvae are general feeders on both animal and plant materials. Animal-origin materials include hair, fur, feathers, hides, horns, carcasses, and dead insects, and they can be found in bird, rodent and insect nests. Plant-origin materials include cereal, stored grain, nuts, seeds, cayenne peppers, various meals and processed foods such as flour.

On fabrics, larvae tend to surface graze but are quite capable of making small or large irregular holds. On furs, they cut the hairs at their bases and leave the hide undamaged. The larvae may burrow through packing materials to get to the food inside.

The adults are found outside and active during warm weather. They are found on flowers, particularly in the spring, often eating the pollen. They also can be found in the nests of birds, rodents, and insects such as wasps, and around spiders. Inside, adults often are found at windows during the spring. The actual breeding areas can be quite diverse and may include unusual places such as wall/ceiling voids, where cluster flies, boxelder bugs, etc. overwinter or yellowjackts, honey bees, etc. live, feeding on the dead insects; rodent bait in attics, crawl spaces, and basements; electrical wire insulation in wall voids; wasp and hornet nests in attics, crawl spaces, and under eaves, bird nests built in or outside against buildings; light fixtures containing dead insects; behind and under baseboards where lint and pet hair accumulate; and can be found far from the primary infestation. When disturbed, the larva curls up and "plays possum".