Common Hide Beetle

Dermestes ater

Appearance

Image of Common Hide Beetle (Dermestes ater) | Rentokil Pest Control Australia
  • 6-10mm long
  • Grey – brown in colour
  • Pointed tips on elytra

Lifecycle

  • Lifecycle usually 2-9 months
  • The larvae are large, and are up to 15mm long. The larva is brown, very hairy with a light line along the dorsal surface

Habits

  • Larvae and adults feed on various animal produce, including furs, leathers, smoked meats, animal skins, fish and meat meals and bones
  • Larvae may bore into timber to use a pupation site