Carpet Beetle Larva

Natural Habitat

Indoors, especially in undisturbed areas like carpets, rugs, upholstered furniture, closets, and attics. They feed on natural fibers.

Diet & Feeding

Keratin-containing materials such as wool, silk, feathers, fur, animal bristles, leather, dried animal remains, museum specimens, and sometimes synthetic fibers if soiled with food or sweat.

Behavior Patterns

Larvae are typically slow-moving and hide in dark, undisturbed areas. They are destructive feeders. Adults are small, oval-shaped beetles that are often found near windows as they are attracted to light, or outdoors feeding on pollen and nectar.

Risks & Benefits

Potential risks include significant damage to textiles, clothing, carpets, and other household items made of natural fibers. They are considered household pests. They do not bite or sting humans. Benefits are negligible when found indoors, but outdoors, some species assist in decomposition of animal remains and can pollinate flowers.

Identified on: 11/3/2025