Carpet Beetle Larva

Scientific Name: Dermestidae (larva stage)

Order & Family: Coleoptera, Dermestidae

Size: Typically 2-5 mm (0.08-0.2 inches) long.

Carpet Beetle Larva

Natural Habitat

Indoors, particularly in dark, undisturbed areas such as under carpets, rugs, furniture, in closets, and attics. They feed on natural fibers and animal products.

Diet & Feeding

Opportunistic scavengers. Their primary diet consists of natural animal products like wool, silk, fur, feathers, leather, dried meat, dead insects, and pet hair. They do not feed on synthetic fibers.

Behavior Patterns

Larvae are typically slow-moving and prefer dark, secluded environments. They undergo several molts before pupating. Adults are often found near windows as they are attracted to light and feed on pollen and nectar outdoors.

Risks & Benefits

Potential risks include damage to personal belongings made of natural fibers (clothing, carpets, upholstery, furs, taxidermy), museum specimens, and food products. They do not bite or sting humans. Benefits are limited, but they do play a role in decomposition in natural environments.

Identified on: 12/6/2025