About Dermestid Beetles
Dermestid beetles (Dermestes maculatus) are commonly used by taxidermists, artists, and collectors for cleaning flesh off bones. They’re especially effective at reaching into small crevices without damaging structures, making them ideal for skull and skeleton preparation.
Life Cycle Summary
Each beetle lives for around 4 to 5 months. Under the right conditions, a single female can lay up to 800 eggs in her lifetime. The larval stage is the most active feeding phase and does most of the cleaning work.
Your starter colony of approximately 60 beetles contains a mix of all life stages, eggs, larvae, pupae, and adults. Under ideal conditions, your population can triple in as little as 4 to 6 weeks.
Housing Your Beetles
You can keep your beetles in a glass or plastic container with small air holes in the lid for ventilation. Inside, provide a layer of substrate, pet-grade pine shavings work well. Add a block of Styrofoam for them to burrow in and lay their eggs. An egg carton or crumpled paper can be added to increase surface area and provide hiding places.
Keep the container in a dark, quiet area, away from vibrations or regular disturbances. They are naturally shy and may stop feeding or reproducing if stressed.
Temperature & Humidity
• Ideal temperature: 21–26°C
• Above 26°C: Beetles may develop the ability to fly, increasing the risk of escape.
• Below 18°C: Activity and reproduction will slow significantly.
• Humidity: Aim for 40–60% humidity.
You can use a digital room temperature thermometer to monitor these.
Use a heater or heating mat to maintain warm temperature in winter.
Feeding Your Colony
Feed dermestids slightly dry bones with meat, or carcass material. You can use an oven or food dehydrator to dry the meat slightly before feeding. This helps keeps bones more intact once cleaned.
Remove rotting food.
Avoid:
• Bloody, very fresh meat (too wet)
• Fatty tissue (can go rancid)
• Cooked or processed food
Water
Dermestids don’t drink from bowls. Instead, offer moisture through a moist cotton wool ball or spray enclosure with water daily.
Warning Signs
• Sudden die-off: Check for temperature spikes or drops, overcrowding, or poor airflow.
• Bad smell: Usually due to rotting meat — dry and reduce food quantity next time.
Safety Note
Wear gloves when handling beetles or bones. Dermestid frass can irritate the skin or lungs in sensitive individuals. Always wash your hands after contact.
Transporting Your Beetles
When you bring your beetles home:
1. Place their travel container inside the prepared enclosure.
2. Open the lid and leave the container in place so they can crawl out on their own.
3. Avoid disturbing them, allow time to settle in.
4. Offer a small amount of meat within 12 hours.
If you’re ever unsure about any aspect of care, please contact PelageStudio. There are also many reliable online sources available. With proper care, your colony will thrive for years.