Larder Beetle—Dermestes lardarius
The larder beetle is a very common and widespread household insect pest. Its name comes from the fact that it was usually found in dried, cured meats stored at room temperature prior to refrigeration. Today larder beetles may be a pest in stored food and other items of high protein content. Outdoors, larder beetles are valuable "recyclers" that play an important role in the breakdown and recycling of animal protein.
Adults and larvae feed on fur, hair, feathers and pet food. The most likely source is dead insects that have accumulated inside walls or attics.
Adult beetles are about ¼ inch long. They are roundly oval and dark brown to black with a characteristic light colored band running across the body, containing 6 dark spots.
Larder beetle larvae are up to ½ inch long. They are tapered in shape and covered with sparse, stiff hair.
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Identification and Control Information
- Entomological Notes: Larder Beetles (PDF)—Penn State College of Agricultural Sciences Cooperative Extension
- Fact Sheet: Larder Beetles (PDF)—Cornell Cooperative Extension
- University of Wisconsin Garden Facts: Larder Beetles (PDF)—University of Wisconsin Extension
[Photos, left to right: Joseph Berger, Bugwood.org; unknown; unknown]