Is it a carpet beetle?
Carpet beetles are small, oval-shaped insects commonly found in homes where they feed on natural fibers and stored food products.
CC0 photograph via iNaturalist (research-grade identification)
whichbug identifies insects from what you can see. It does not identify bites and has no health information.
What to look for
| Size | 1.5 to 5 mm |
|---|---|
| Colour | Varies by species; often black, brown, or white with patterned scales, or orange and black bands |
| Shape | Oval and convex, resembling a tiny beetle |
| Wings | Hardened forewings (elytra) covering membranous hind wings used for flight |
| Antennae | Short, clubbed antennae with a distinct 3-segmented club |
| Movement | Slow, crawling movement; adults can fly short distances |
Where you'll find them
Closets and wardrobesCarpets and rugsAttics and eavesUpholstered furniturePantry shelvesfabric pest
Larvae feed on natural fibers like wool, silk, and feathers, causing holes in textiles and damaging stored animal-based products.
Season: Spring through early summer
Signs it's around
- Irregular holes in woolen clothing or carpets
- Shed larval skins (castings) near infested areas
- Small, dark frass (droppings) resembling pepper grains
- Adult beetles found near windowsills or light sources
Not sure? The lookalikes
| vs bed bug | Carpet beetles have a hard, oval shell and visible antennae, whereas bed bugs are flat, reddish-brown, and lack visible wings |
| vs weevil | Carpet beetles have a rounded, convex body without a distinct snout, while weevils have a characteristic elongated snout |
| vs spider beetle | Carpet beetles have visible antennae and a distinct head, whereas spider beetles have a humped back and very short, hidden antennae |
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