Carpet Beetle Bites
Do Carpet Beetles Bite?
Adult carpet beetles do not bite and in fact do not feed on fabrics; however, carpet beetle larvae do feed on fabrics.
Since adults feed on plant pollen and nectar located outdoors, they are not equipped with mandibles (teeth) that are sufficiently designed to pierce the skin via a bite. Besides, carpet beetles are not interested whatsoever in biting a person or pet to obtain their food.
Carpet beetle larvae do possess small, hair-like bristles on their skin and these bristles may cause an allergic reaction if they come into contact with the skin.
Such a reaction is likely to produce a visible rash or irritation that is sometimes mistakenly thought to be bed bug bites.
Are Carpet Beetles Harmful?
Carpet beetle larvae are some of the most damaging insects that feed on items or fabrics made from:
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Natural cottons
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Furs
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Silks
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Leather
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Woolens
As well as items around the house such as:
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Lint
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Hair
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Spilled food crumbs
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Dead insects
Life Cycle of Carpet Beetles
Larvae
Larvae feed in dark, undisturbed locations within the typical home and do not feed on fabrics that are made of 100% synthetic fibers.
Adults
The adults feed on pollen and nectar from outdoor flowers and flowering plants.
Therefore, adults are not involved with actually feeding on fabrics, but are responsible for mating and the female beetle laying eggs that hatch into the larval stage.
Common Carpet Beetles
The most commonly encountered carpet beetle infestations inside homes are from the varied carpet beetle, the furniture carpet beetle and the black carpet beetle.