Fur Beetle

Attagenus pellio

Classification

Phylum: Arthropoda
Subphylum: Hexapoda
Class: Insecta
Order: Coleoptera
Suborder: Polyphaga
Superfamily: Bostrichoidea
Family: Dermestidae
Tribe: Attagenini
Genus: Attagenus
Species: pellio

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Attagenus pellio: /ætəˈdʒiːnəs ˈpɛlioʊ/

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Summary

Attagenus pellio, commonly known as the fur beetle or carpet beetle, is a pest that primarily damages stored products and is found in both natural and urban environments.

Physical Characteristics

Oval-shaped insect, 3.6–6 mm long with two patches of white hair on the elytra; larvae are honey-colored and around ¼ inch long.

Identification Tips

Look for the characteristic two white patches on the elytra of adults; larvae are sometimes referred to as 'woolly bears'.

Habitat

Common inhabitant of bird nests, inverted areas of homes, warehouses, and museums.

Distribution

Native to Europe but now cosmopolitan; found in northeastern United States and adjacent Canada, particularly in British Columbia.

Diet

Larvae feed on animal materials such as wool, feathers, and hair/fur, as well as cereal and vegetable products; adults feed on pollen and nectar.

Life Cycle

6 months to 3 years, depending on environmental conditions.

Reproduction

Eggs are usually laid in bird nests, where larvae can find organic matter to feed on.

Ecosystem Role

Acts as a recycler of organic materials, specifically animal byproducts.

Economic Impact

Pest that damages stored products such as furs, skins, textiles, and grain.