Comments on: What is this bug and how do I destroy it?

Question: What is this bug and how do I destroy it?

adamrice — Mon, 19 Feb 2007 07:35:20 -0800

I have found destructive insects living in a wool rug (photos 1, 2, 3). I'd like to know what they are, and more importantly, how to prevent them from re-appearing.

In the third picture are what I thing might be egg cases made from rug fibers (that's the rug's color). I've had this rug for about ten years, but have never had this problem before. I moved a year ago, and the part of the rug with the most damage is right next to the return for my house's AC system—I suspect the bugs were living in the duct behind that.

I'm taking the rug into the cleaners, and will have an AC service clean out the duct, but I want to make sure I cover my bases.

By: Smart Dalek

Smart Dalek — Mon, 19 Feb 2007 07:48:16 -0800

You have carpet beetle larvae. The University of Florida has some tips on dealing with the pests, while OldCarpet offers info and service for restoring the rug afterward.

By: essexjan

essexjan — Mon, 19 Feb 2007 08:25:37 -0800

Seconding carpet beetle, also known as 'woolly bears'.

By: adamrice

adamrice — Mon, 19 Feb 2007 09:38:20 -0800

That was quick. Thanks, AskMe!