Carpet Beetle (Larva)

Natural Habitat

Indoors, particularly in dark, undisturbed areas like carpets, rugs, upholstered furniture, closets, attics. Also found in museums and stored dry goods.

Diet & Feeding

Natural fibers (wool, silk, felt, feathers, animal hair, leather), dried animal products (dead insects, pet food, taxidermy), occasionally synthetic fibers if mixed with natural ones. The larvae are the damaging stage.

Behavior Patterns

Larvae are slow-moving and often found in undisturbed areas. They are negatively phototactic (avoid light) and will burrow deep into infested materials. They go through several instars (molting stages) before pupating. Adults are typically small, oval-shaped beetles that can fly and are attracted to light, often found near windows. Adults feed on pollen and nectar outdoors.

Risks & Benefits

Potential risks include significant damage to textiles, clothing, carpets, and stored organic materials. Their shedding larval skins and fecal pellets can also be allergenic to sensitive individuals. They do not bite or sting. Benefit-wise, in nature, they play a role in decomposition by consuming animal remains.

Identified on: 11/29/2025