Varied Carpet Beetle Larva

Often found indoors in homes, specifically in carpets, closets, under furniture, or near natural fibers like wool, silk, and dried plant products. Outdoors, they inhabit bird nests and wasp nests.

Larvae feed on natural animal fibers such as wool, fur, feathers, hair, dead insects, and sometimes stored grains or spices. Adult beetles feed on flower pollen and nectar.

The larvae (known as 'woolly bears') are active feeders that prefer dark, undisturbed areas. They molt several times, leaving behind shed skins. When threatened, the larvae may roll up or erect their bristly hairs.

Risks: Major household pest; the larvae can cause significant damage to carpets, clothing (wool/cashmere), and museum specimens. Their fine hairs (hastisetae) can cause skin irritation or allergic reactions (carpet beetle dermatitis) in sensitive individuals. Benefits: In nature, they act as decomposers by breaking down dead animal matter.