Carpet Beetle Larva

Natural Habitat

Commonly found indoors in carpets, upholstery, closets, and air ducts where organic debris accumulates.

Diet & Feeding

Scavengers that feed on natural fibers like wool, silk, fur, feathers, and keratin-rich debris such as hair or dead skin cells.

Behavior Patterns

Larvae are slow-moving and avoid light (negatively phototactic). They undergo several molts before pupating into adult beetles, often leaving behind translucent shed skins.

Risks & Benefits

Risks include damage to household textiles and clothing. Some individuals may experience 'carpet beetle dermatitis,' an itchy allergic reaction caused by contact with the larva's tiny irritating hairs (setae).

Identified on: 12/28/2025