Carpet Beetle Larva

Natural Habitat

Found indoors in dark, undisturbed areas such as closets, carpet edges, air ducts, attics, and underneath furniture. Frequently reside in bird nests or wasp nests outdoors.

Diet & Feeding

Feeds on natural protein-based fibers such as wool, fur, silk, feathers, felt, leather, and dead insects. They may also consume dried food products.

Behavior Patterns

Larvae prefer dark places and are photophobic (avoid light). They move slowly and irregular molting leaves behind brittle, hollow exoskeletons. The larval stage is the destructive phase of the lifecycle.

Risks & Benefits

Risks: They are a major household pest that causes significant damage to carpets, clothing, upholstery, and museum specimens. The bristly hairs can cause skin irritation or 'carpet beetle dermatitis' in some humans. Benefits: In nature, they act as decomposers of dead animal matter.

Identified on: 2/23/2026