B16 · Insect
Carpet Beetle
Anthrenocerus australis
Tiny beetles whose larvae eat wool, silk, feathers and leather. Common in homes with natural fibre carpets.
- Size
- 2–4 mm (adult), up to 6 mm (larva)
- Habitat
- Woollens, carpets, stored food, natural history collections
- Activity
- Spring to summer
Overview
Adult carpet beetles feed on pollen and are harmless — it's the hairy larvae that do the damage. They eat keratin-based materials: wool carpets, silk clothing, feather cushions and even leather shoes. They're slow breeders but can go unnoticed for months until bald patches appear in carpets or holes in jumpers.
How to identify
- Adult: small rounded beetle, mottled black/white/brown pattern
- Larva: elongated, hairy, reddish-brown with light bands
- Bald patches on wool carpets, especially in dark corners under furniture
- Holes in wool jumpers, silk and leather items
General guidance only. Information on Home Pest Defence is provided for educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional advice. For termites, venomous spider bites, wasp nests in walls, or protected wildlife, contact a licensed pest controller, your GP, or the relevant state wildlife authority. In emergencies call 000; for poisoning call 13 11 26.