Carpet Beetle Larva

Found indoors in dark, undisturbed areas such as under carpets, in closets, behind baseboards, and inside air ducts. In nature, they inhabit birds nests or animal dens.

Feeds on keratin-rich natural fibers including wool, silk, fur, feathers, hair, pet dander, and dried insects. They do not eat synthetic fabrics unless soiled with natural products.

Larvae prefer darkness and are often found active during the worm-like larval stage which can last from 2 months to a year. They molt multiple times, leaving behind distinctive shed skins.

Generally harmless to human health, although contact with the larvae's tiny hairs (hastisetae) can cause an itchy allergic dermatitis in some people. They are a significant household pest that can damage clothing, carpets, and stored biological specimens.