How do I recognize a carpet beetle?
Adult carpet beetles are easy to identify by their shape and color. The body is oval to almost circular (2.8 to 5 mm long), and the colors range from all black to black with a pattern of yellow and white scales on the head and wings. The larvae of carpet beetles have may visible hairs along their body and may vary from pale to dark in color depending on the species.

Do carpet beetles cause damage?
Yes. Products such as fabrics exhibit various holes from the adult and irregular holes in material from the larvae. Furs and brushes may have tips of hairs damaged, leaving uneven areas.

What are their breeding habits?
The female black carpet beetle lays 90 eggs in lint which has accumulated in dark and secluded places such as behind and under baseboards. It usually takes 177 to 370 days for a larva to emerge into an adult. The adult lives for 30 to 60 days.

The female varied carpet beetle does not always lay her eggs on larval food material. It usually takes 222 to 323 days for a larva to reach adulthood. The adult male lives 13 days whereas the females live 14 to 44 days.

Can I do anything to prevent a carpet beetle infestation?
Regular inspection of the home should take place. As well, good housekeeping practices will limit likelihood of infestation.

How do I control an infestation of beetles?
Your local Sound Pest Control office has products developed for the control of carpet beetles. Depending on the severity of infestation, a single control measure may not be effective and an integrated program conducted by an Sound Pest Control service technician will be required.