Carpet Beetle (Larva)

Natural Habitat

Indoors, commonly found in carpets, rugs, upholstered furniture, clothing, undisturbed areas, closets, and food storage areas.

Diet & Feeding

The larvae are scavengers, feeding on a wide range of animal products including wool, silk, fur, feathers, leather, dried meat, dead insects, pet food, and sometimes plant-based materials like cereals and grains.

Behavior Patterns

Carpet beetle larvae typically avoid light. They move slowly and may curl up or play dead when disturbed. Their presence is often indicated by damaged fabrics, shed larval skins, and fecal pellets. Adults are often found near windows as they are attracted to light and feed on pollen and nectar outdoors.

Risks & Benefits

Risks: Carpet beetle larvae are considered household pests due to their destructive feeding habits on natural fibers and stored products. They can cause significant damage to clothing, carpets, and other textiles, as well as contaminate stored food items. Some individuals can develop allergic reactions to the bristles of the larvae. Benefits: In natural environments, they play a role in decomposition by consuming dead organic matter. However, their presence indoors is almost always considered detrimental.

Identified on: 10/7/2025