Carpet Beetle Larva

Indoors in homes, museums, and warehouses; often found in carpets, upholstery, and stored clothing

Feeds on animal-based materials including wool, silk, feathers, fur, and dead insects, as well as some stored dry foods

The larval stage is the primary feeding stage; they are slow-moving and prefer dark, secluded areas. They undergo multiple molts, leaving behind shed skins

Does not bite humans but causes significant damage to fabrics and collections. Larval hairs can cause allergic reactions or skin irritation (carpet beetle dermatitis) in sensitive individuals