Carpet Beetle Larva

Natural Habitat

Indoors, especially in undisturbed areas under carpets, rugs, upholstered furniture, in closets, natural fiber clothing, stored food products, and even inside museums on specimens.

Diet & Feeding

Keratin-based materials (wool, silk, fur, feathers), dried animal products, stored food products (grains, cereals), dead insects, and plant-based materials.

Behavior Patterns

Larvae are the damaging stage, actively feeding on natural fibers and dried organic matter. They are known for their slow movement and often curl up when disturbed. Adults feed on pollen and nectar outdoors and are attracted to light, but can lay eggs indoors. They undergo complete metamorphosis.

Risks & Benefits

Potential risks include significant damage to natural fiber textiles (clothing, carpets, furniture), stored food products, and museum collections. They do not bite or sting humans, but their bristles can sometimes cause skin irritation or allergic reactions in sensitive individuals. There are no direct benefits to humans, but in natural settings, various species of dermestid beetles play a role in decomposition.

Identified on: 9/10/2025