larder beetle

The larder beetle, also known as the bacon beetle, is a dark brown or black insect approximately 1/4 inch long. Its bristly larva feeds on dried animal products such as meats, skins, and feathers. Dermestid beetles, including the larder beetle, are scavenging insects. While adults are typically brown or black, their larvae are wormlike and covered in hair. The larder beetle larva (Dermestes lardarius) specifically consumes cheese and dried meats like ham and bacon. Adult larder beetles are oval-shaped, black or brown with yellowish bands and dark spots, and measure about 6 to 7.5 mm in length. These beetles are often found indoors when adults emerge and seek to exit their pupal stage.12