Carpet Beetle Larva

Natural Habitat

Found indoors in dark, secluded areas such as under furniture, in closets, along baseboards, and in attics. They thrive near natural fibers like wool, silk, and fur.

Diet & Feeding

Feeds on natural fibers including wool, silk, leather, fur, feathers, and pet hair. They also eat dried food products, dead insects, and pollen.

Behavior Patterns

Larvae prefer dark places and move slowly. They are known to 'worry' or chew irregular holes in fabrics. When disturbed, they may curl up or play dead. The adult beetles are attracted to light and often found near windows.

Risks & Benefits

Benefits: In nature, they help decompose animal matter. Risks: Significant household pest that causes damage to clothing, carpets, upholstery, and taxidermy. The bristle-like hairs on the larvae can cause skin irritation or dermatitis (carpet beetle dermatitis) in sensitive individuals.

Identified on: 2/27/2026