It damages household products containing keratin, a principal protein found in animal hair and feathers. Plant products such as cereals and grains, as well as synthetic fabrics not derived from animal matter, may also be attacked. Dried insect specimens, such as those found in insect collections, are also devoured. The black carpet beetle is found throughout the United States, Canada, and Mexico. It is believed that this pest may have been imported to the United States in the early 19th century from Europe where it is not considered a major pest.
Humidity plays a large role for development of carpet beetles.
In the southern states, high humidity may often cause the black carpet beetle's eggs to become moldy while in the northern states lower humidity is usually favorable for a successful egg hatch. The black carpet beetle undergoes complete metamorphosis, passing through the egg, larva, pupa, and adult stages. This cycle requires two months to two years depending on temperature. Females lay about 50 small, white eggs which hatch in six to ten days. Eggs are deposited in lint, cracks, and other areas near larval food supply where they are rarely seen.