Black Carpet Beetles in Kailua Kona
The black carpet beetle, prevalent in Kailua Kona, is highly destructive, targeting items containing keratin, a primary protein in animal hair and feathers. It also attacks plant materials like cereals and grains, and even synthetic fabrics unrelated to animal matter. Dried insect specimens, commonly found in collections, are also susceptible to their destruction.
Black Carpet Beetle Habitat
Outdoors, female black carpet beetles seek out spider webs, bee, wasp, or bird nests to lay their eggs. These nests contain dead insects, beeswax, pollen, feathers, or other debris that serve as larval food. Black carpet beetle adults are also drawn to flowers, and during spring, they may enter homes and buildings. Larvae may stray from the nest into various areas of the house. Often, black carpet beetles are inadvertently brought indoors with old woolens and carpeting, or through stored products like dried dog food.
Black Beetle Behaviors, Threats, or Dangers
Black carpet beetles are scavengers that commonly infest kitchen cupboards and storage areas for woolen carpets or clothing in homes. Infestations may originate from bird nests, animal carcasses, or accumulations of dead insects like flies or lady beetles in attics or basements. Stored products such as cereal, pet food, or birdseed can also be sources of black carpet beetles. If you are dealing with a black carpet beetle infestation, always contact your local beetle exterminators.
