Carpet Beetles can be found in homes, offices, warehouses. They not only cause destruction to fabrics, carpets, stored furs, but also to stored foods.

Carpet beetle larvae survive by eating carpets, rugs, furniture, fur and clothing as well as abandoned insect nests, and small dead animals.

The larvae, although quite small (under 0.2 inches) can do more damage then the full-grown adult. Because these hairy beetles are born with a voracious appetite, they will start right away eating to satisfy the need. The larvae will continue to develop over a 36 month period. The pupae stage can last anywhere from one week to twenty-four days before a full adult emerges.

Carpet Beetles have four stages of life- egg- larvae, pupae and adult. The female is a capable of laying between thirty to one-hundred eggs. Eggs are placed in lint nests or tucked behind baseboards or into floor cracks and crevices.

As larvae they are very damaging to food and stored products. They are often found in mounted, stuffed game trophies feasting on the fur and feathers.

Pest Control Tips for Dealing with Carpet Beetles:

Buy a good vacuum and use it daily. If you suspect an invasion, vacuum several times a day. Sweep your carpet first to dislodge any beetles that might be lurking and then vacuum.

Make sure when you store old clothes or seasonal items that none of these fabrics are stained. Store them in sealed plastic containers with tight fitting lids and add a few mothballs for protection.

Check your food products before you use them. You can fast-freeze your dry food products to kill any carpet beetle infestation.