The Beetle That Eats Your Museum

The larder beetle is a household pest that consumes almost any animal-based item, from dried fish to precious museum specimens. It can even digest high-protein plant grains with ease.

These beetles are nature's most dedicated cleanup crew, often found scavenging in homes and food storage areas. Because their diet includes feathers, hides, and dried meat, they pose a serious threat to natural history collections. Their ability to survive on a wide range of proteins makes them one of the most widespread and persistent household pests globally. You might find them in your pantry, but they are just as likely to be found destroying centuries-old taxidermy.