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Tiny Hard-Shelled Black Bugs in House: Carpet Beetles

Small black beetle
Dermestid/carpet beetle

Tiny, pill-shaped, black with tan stripes, hard shell, slow-moving, found in every room but no carpet. Hard to squish.

Identification: Dermestid Beetles (Carpet Beetles)

Common household pests. Adults feed on pollen; larvae eat dry animal/plant products: wool, silk, feathers, pet hair, dry pet food, cereals, spices, dead insects.

Control

Find the source: Check pantry, pet food, woolens, stored spices, dead insects in light fixtures.
Discard infested items. Clean shelves thoroughly.
Vacuum cracks, corners, under baseboards.
Store vulnerable items in airtight containers.

A few beetles are normal. Many = active infestation. No need for pesticides if source is removed.

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