Carpet Beetle Larva

Natural Habitat

Found indoors in dark, undisturbed areas like closets, under furniture, in carpets, and near woolens or stored fabrics. Outdoors, they inhabit bird nests and bee hives.

Diet & Feeding

Feeds on natural fibers and keratin-rich materials including wool, silk, fur, feathers, hair, dead insects, and dried pet food.

Behavior Patterns

Larvae avoid light and move relatively slowly. They are the destructive stage of the life cycle, molting several times and leaving behind shed skins. Adults are attracted to light and feed on pollen.

Risks & Benefits

Risk: They are a common household pest that can cause significant damage to carpets, clothing, and upholstery. Their bristly hairs can cause skin irritation (dermatitis) in some people. Benefit: In nature, they act as decomposers of animal matter.

Identified on: 2/25/2026