Carpet Beetle Larva (or cast skin)

Natural Habitat

Indoors, especially in areas with natural fibers like carpets, rugs, furniture, animal products (wool, silk, feathers, leather, furs), and sometimes in stored food products. Can also be found in bird nests or animal carcasses outdoors.

Diet & Feeding

Larvae are scavengers that feed on a wide variety of animal and plant products, including wool, silk, fur, feathers, leather, dead insects, pet food, dried meat, and cereal products. They do not feed on synthetic fibers.

Behavior Patterns

Carpet beetle larvae are often found in dark, undisturbed areas. They are slow-moving and tend to curl up when disturbed. They undergo several molts as they grow, shedding their skin, which can often be mistaken for the actual insect. Adults are attracted to light and often feed on pollen and nectar outdoors.

Risks & Benefits

Potential risks include damage to natural fiber textiles, clothing, carpets, and stored food products. Some people may develop allergic reactions or skin irritations from contact with the larval hairs or cast skins. They are not known to bite or transmit diseases to humans. Benefits are limited, but they do play a role in decomposition in natural environments.

Identified on: 10/30/2025