Black carpet beetles (also known as Attagenus unicolor) are small oval hard-shelled insects, which are dark brown or black. They range in size from 3 mm to 5 mm (0,12 to 0,20 inches long) in their adult stages. They are found in Europe, Asia, and North America. The larvae are narrow and long, and they have a tuft of hair at the end of their abdomen. They are about 12.5 mm long. 

The black carpet beetle larvae are the main problem, given their need to feed on high-protein sources found in many areas of the home. Moreover, the contact with the hair of the larvae is irritating and can cause dermatitis, which is sometimes confused with cutaneous reactions due to bedbugs.

Black carpet beetles are household pests that can destroy various items in your home, which is why inspection and knowledge of their habits can prevent costly destruction. Contact V Extermination if you think you have a black beetle infestation in your home.

Development and Behaviours

Female black carpet beetles lay from 50 to 100 eggs at a time and they need temperatures ranging from 15 to 30 ° C in order to reproduce. They lay their eggs on material that will later serve as a good food source for them. For example, larvae can be found behind the skirting boards where organic matter accumulates over the years as well as in the hot air ducts of the heating system where a pile of dust constantly builds up in the attics.

The adult carpet beetles are usually herbivorous and feed on pollen and nectar. However, when they are introduced into houses, they feed on all kinds of fabrics, such as carpets, wool, leather, etc.

However, the larvae are omnivorous and prefer to feed in dark and protected places (carpets, etc.). The larvae mainly attack plant and animal products such as wool, cotton, plants, dead insects, etc. Dry animal food, stored grain, and spices are also food sources and potential shelters for the larvae.

The duration of the larval stage varies according to various factors including, among others, the abundance of adequate food for their development and the temperature conditions.

It can take two to three months before the larvae of black carpet beetles turn into pupae. During this time, they can infest untimely locations and drill irregular holes in carpets or organic fiber textiles. The life cycle of the black carpet beetles can take between two months to two years depending on the temperature conditions.

Prevention

• Vacuum or broom your house regularly (pay special attention to areas where dust and pet hair accumulate)
• Regularly air clothes and blankets
• Close the windows
• Install mosquito nets to prevent these insects from entering your home
• Pay attention to pet food
• Clog holes or crevices in your home (windows, doors, etc.)

Recommendations

It is recommended hiring an exterminator to get rid of a carpet beetle infestation quickly and efficiently. Our technicians have professional certifications in extermination. They will be able to quickly identify the source of the parasites and the degree of infestation in order to apply the necessary treatment.

If you still prefer to get rid of the black carpet beetles yourself, here are some recommendations:

• If the larvae of attackers are found in your clothes, washing with hot soapy water will get rid of intruders. An inspection of where the garment was found will be required.
• Make sure to vacuum all corners and corners where textile fibers, food, and dust can accumulate. In this way, you will kill the attackers who could hide and the vacuum will collect the eggs. Remember to seal and discard the bag afterward.

If you find holes in your carpets or carpet beetle damage in your furniture or fabrics or if you detect the presence of carpet beetle eggs or larvae, do not hesitate to communicate with us. In the event of a serious infestation, contact the V Extermination branch closest to you for a safe procedure and guaranteed treatment.