Carpet Beetle Larva

Natural Habitat

Found indoors in carpets, upholstery, closets, and baseboards; outdoors in bird or rodent nests.

Diet & Feeding

Feeds on natural animal fibers like wool, silk, feathers, fur, hair, and dead insects.

Behavior Patterns

Larvae are slow-moving and avoid light; they undergo a complete metamorphosis from egg to adult beetle, with the larval stage lasting several months.

Risks & Benefits

Non-venomous but can cause 'carpet beetle dermatitis' (skin rashes) in sensitive individuals due to their prickly hairs; primary risk is property damage to textiles and dry goods.

Identified on: 12/31/2025