Carpet Beetle Larva (Shed Skin / Exuviae)

Typically found indoors in dark, undisturbed areas like closets, under furniture, in carpets, or near woolens and stored products. Outdoors, they are found in bird or insect nests.

The larvae feed on keratin-based animal products (wool, fur, silk, leather, feathers), dead insects, and dry food products.

Larvae prefer dark, secluded spaces. The image depicts a shed skin (exuviae), which the larva leaves behind as it molts and grows; finding these is often the first sign of an infestation.

Risks: Larvae can cause significant damage to carpets, clothing, and taxidermy. The small hairs (hastisetae) on their bodies (and shed skins) can cause contact dermatitis or allergic reactions in some humans. Benefits: None in a household setting; in nature, they help decompose dead organic matter.