Carpet Beetle Larva

Commonly found indoors in homes, warehouses, and locations with animal-based materials or dried organic matter. They often inhabit baseboards, closets, upholstered furniture, and under carpets.

Larvae feed on natural animal fibers like wool, silk, fur, feathers, and leather, as well as dried food products such as flour, cereal, and pet food.

The larval stage is the destructive phase, lasting several months to years depending on food and environment. They are slow-movers and prefer dark, undisturbed areas. They undergo a complete metamorphosis from egg to larva, pupa, and finally an adult beetle.

While they do not bite humans or carry diseases, the shed hairs of the larvae can cause allergic reactions ('carpet beetle dermatitis') in some people, resulting in itchy, red welts. They are significant household pests because they can cause extensive damage to clothing, blankets, and rugs.