Fur Beetles
Key Features
Fur Beetles (Attagenus pellio) are small oval insects, between 4mm and 5mm in length. Dark brown to black in colour, fur beetles
have two characteristic white spots on their rear wing cases. For this reason, fur beetles are sometimes called 'two spotted carpet
beetles'.
The adults fly readily, and only feed on pollen.
The larval stage damages animal fibres, feathers and furs.
Biology
The females lay several hundred eggs on animal fibre substrates. The eggs hatch into larvae, which can be up to 12mm in
length, of banded hairy appearance.
The larvae feed on animal fibres and can take up to six months to mature. Pupation normally complete after 3 weeks.
Distribution
Common in Britain, often found in bird's nests, domestic premises, museums, animal units.
Significance
Causes damage to fabrics, museum specimens. Of relatively little importance to animal units.
Control
A thorough survey will reveal any birds nests, which should be removed. All infested material should be fumigated, or treated with
a residual insecticide.
