Adult carpet beetles can range anywhere from 3 mm to 5 mm long. Round or oblong in shape, it usually has multi-color patterns of black, tan, and gray on its body. An adult beetle has wings, which enables it to fly. Developing larvae are usually long and carrot-shaped. They measure anywhere between 8 mm and 12 mm in length and seem to be segmented. Tufts of dark hair is what gives carpet beetle larvae a fuzzy look.
Where do Carpet Beetles live?
Adult carpet beetles generally live outdoors in plants and shrubs. These pests often enter structures when females search for secluded areas to lay their eggs.
Where can carpet beetles be found?
- Some of the common areas to find carpet beetles comprise of
- Under rugs and carpets
- Behind baseboards
- Inside upholstered furniture
- Storage area for clothing like boxes, chests, etc.
- Beds
- By accidently bringing in flowers that are infested
What Does Carpet Beetle Eat?
It is important to understand what they survive on. Beetles can eat fur, animal hide, hair as well as feathers. Carpet beetle larvae are the only ones that feed on animal products because they require keratin, a fibrous protein found in animal tissue.
Carpet beetle larvae can also feed on a variety of fabrics and materials derived from animals including:
- Carpet
- Brushes
- Leather
- Wool
- Pet hair
- lint
Adult carpet beetles strictly feed on nectar and pollen.
What are the problems Caused by Carpet Beetles?
If not checked in time, carpet beetle infestation can cause a lot of damage including
- Allergic reactions like rashes and itching
- Damage on Carpets and rugs
- Irregular holes in Clothing
- Holes through Upholstered furniture
- Destruction of Stuffed animals
- Destructed Pillows
How to eliminate Carpet Beetles?
During spring and summer, Carpet beetles mate outdoors. The female searches for dark places to lay eggs after. Thus, undisturbed and dark areas of homes and warehouses are suitable locations to the insects. Once the larvae develops, it burrows further into food sources to pupate. It is highly important to exterminate carpet beetles as soon as possible and the best way to go about it is to seek professional pest Extermination Company like Sunset Pest Control to eradicate carpet beetles completely and safely.
