Biology of Carpet Beetles

Carpet beetles are one of the most common household pests in Calgary, known for damaging fabrics, carpets, stored clothing, and natural materials. Understanding their biology helps homeowners recognize infestations early and prevent serious damage.

Species Found in Calgary

The most common species include:

• Varied Carpet Beetle (Anthrenus verbasci)
  
  

• Black Carpet Beetle (Attagenus unicolor)
  
  

• Furniture Carpet Beetle (Anthrenus flavipes)
  
  

Appearance

• Adults: Small, round, 2–4 mm long. Varied carpet beetles have a mottled pattern of white, yellow, and brown scales.
  
  

• Larvae: Fuzzy, brown, carrot-shaped, and covered in bristly hairs. These larvae are the destructive stage.
  
  

Life Cycle

Carpet beetles undergo complete metamorphosis:

1. Egg – Laid in cracks, baseboards, closets, and near food sources.
   
   

2. Larva – The feeding stage that damages fabrics. Can last from 3 months to 1 year depending on temperature and food supply.
   
   

3. Pupa – Transformation stage, typically hidden in dark protected areas.
   
   

4. Adult – Lives for a few weeks; feeds on pollen outdoors and often flies into homes.
   
   

Feeding Habits

Larvae feed on:

• Wool, silk, leather
  
  

• Carpets and rugs
  
  

• Fur, feathers, animal hair
  
  

• Stored clothing
  
  

• Dead insects (spiders, cluster flies, etc.)
  
  

Adults prefer pollen and nectar, not fabrics. They often enter homes through open windows in spring and summer.

Behaviour

• Most active in dark, undisturbed areas (closets, storage boxes, under furniture).
  
  

• Larvae avoid light and crawl slowly.
  
  

• Adults are often found near windows because they are attracted to sunlight.
  
  

Signs of Infestation

• Small irregular holes in clothing or carpets
  
  

• Shed larval skins
  
  

• Tiny beetles near windowsills
  
  

• Fuzzy larvae in corners, closets, or under baseboards
  
  

Risk Factors

Homes with:

• Wool carpets
  
  

• Stored clothing or blankets
  
  

• Animal hair
  
  

• Dead insects in attics or basements
  …are more susceptible to infestations.
  
  

Why Carpet Beetles Are a Problem

• Larvae cause significant fabric damage
  
  

• Infestations spread quietly and quickly
  
  

• May trigger allergies or skin irritation from larval hairs
  
  

Professional Control

Because larvae hide deep in cracks and fabrics, professional treatment is often required. Pest Pro Exterminator provides effective carpet beetle inspections, targeted insecticide applications, and long-term prevention to keep your home protected.