
Larder Beetle
Meet nature's tiny clean-up crew that loves leftovers!

The Basics
Scientific Name
Dermestes lardarius
Conservation Status
Least Concern
Average size
7 to 9 millimeters
diet
Dead animals, dried food, cheese
lifespan
4 to 6 months
Let’s Explore
Overview
The Larder Beetle is a tiny treasure of the insect world, measuring only 7 to 9 millimeters long. These beetles belong to the insect family Dermestidae and are known for their snazzy black and yellow patterns.
Larder Beetles love to munch on leftovers! They primarily feast on dead animals, dried food, and even cheese. Their taste for the culinary remains makes them quite the scavengers in nature.
These critters are not just good at cleaning up after parties; they also have a remarkable lifespan! Larder Beetles typically live for about 4 to 6 months, making the most of their short lives while they snack and thrive.
You can often find Larder Beetles hanging out in homes, especially around food storage areas. They may appear uninvited, but they serve an important role in breaking down organic materials.
So, if you spot a Larder Beetle in your kitchen, just remember they are part of nature’s clean-up crew. Give them a wave and let them do their thing, but maybe keep the cheese hidden!
Where can you find a Larder Beetle in the wild?
What does a Larder Beetle eat?
How big can a Larder Beetle grow?
How long does a Larder Beetle typically live?
What is the conservation status of the Larder Beetle?
What are the main threats to the Larder Beetle?
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