What are they?
Beetles such as carpet beetles are commonly found in our homes. Although they pose no risk to health they can be a nuisance and cause damage to textile products such as wool, fur, leather, silk and other natural fibres.
The beetles are small, round and about the size of a ladybird (0.15 cm to 0.4 cm in length). They are dark brown or black with mottled patches of white or yellow. Fur beetles are the same size but have a single white spot on each wing.
The female will lay between 20 and 100 eggs in spring/early summer on furs, wool and natural fibres.
The eggs hatch into brown, hairy larvae, known as woolly bears.
The woolly bears avoid light and curl into a ball when approached. It is the larva that causes the damage, feeding until they are ready to turn into a carpet or fur beetle.
How to prevent an infestation
- Vacuum regularly (especially in areas under storage heaters or at the skirting junction)
- Remove old / unoccupied birds' nests from the eaves and loft spaces
- Remove dead birds or rodents when found in chimneys, under floors or in loft spaces
- Avoid storing goods with natural fibre content (like old carpets and clothing) in roof spaces as they are potential food sources
Can I treat them?
The best way to treat an infestation of carpet or fur beetles is to use a suitable insecticide*. You can buy this from your local DIY or garden centre.
*Always refer to the product instructions BEFORE use and follow these at ALL times
Last Updated on Tuesday, March 12, 2024