Carpet Beetles

Carpet Beetles

As the name suggests, Carpet beetles are known to humans for their choice of food source. Whilst the adult beetles feed off pollen, the larvae feed on products made from animals, such as leather, fur, wool, and silk. Identifiable by their small oval shaped bodies, Carpet beetles don’t often choose to feed off synthetic fabrics, unless they are stained by food or oil. Rather than being out in plain sight, the Carpet beetle, adult and larvae, prefer to consume their food sources in dark, solitary spaces; keeping their presence relatively under the radar wherever they go.

Signs Of An Infestation

• Carpet beetles tend to leave larger areas of damage in dark / sheltered areas (as compared to damage in a number of spots caused by clothes moths)
• Piles of discarded bristle skins (from moulting larvae) can be seen near areas of damage.
• Droppings the appearance and size of course sand and of colour similar to the textile they have eaten, will be found at areas of damage
• Adults appear in Spring or early Summer and are often found on window sills trying to get outside to feed on pollen.

Carpet Beetle Prevention Tips

• Regularly vacuum all carpeted rooms, especially around the perimeter and under heavy furniture.
• Regularly move cupboards and heavy furniture in carpeted rooms. Inspect the carpet for signs of damage and insect activity.
• At the end of each season, wash and store clothes in a sealed bag / suitcase.
• Check incoming flowers for adult beetles
• If you have a lot of flowers near your home, adult beetles can regularly fly in – insects screens will help.