Hide Beetle:

The Hide Beetle (Dermestes maculatus) is a scavenger insect often associated with animal products, carcasses, and hides. Adults are about 6–10 mm long, dark brown to black, and covered with fine hairs. These beetles are known for feeding on dried animal matter, including hides, feathers, and meat scraps. They are sometimes pests in museums, damaging taxidermy specimens. Larvae are dark, bristly, and can burrow into materials to pupate. Hide beetles can also infest pet food and other stored goods of animal origin. Sanitation, proper storage of animal products, and removal of potential breeding sites are key for prevention. In industrial or museum settings, professional pest management is often needed to protect valuable items.