Carpet Beetle Larva (most likely Varied Carpet Beetle or Black Carpet Beetle)

Natural Habitat

Indoors, found in carpets, rugs, upholstered furniture, clothing, stored food products, museum specimens, taxidermy, dead insects, bird nests, attics, and wall voids. They thrive in dark, undisturbed areas.

Diet & Feeding

Keratin-rich materials (wool, silk, furs, feathers, hair), dried animal products, dried plant matter, pet food, stored grains, and sometimes synthetic fibers if soiled.

Behavior Patterns

Larvae are slow-moving, covered in bristles, and avoid light. They feed secretly in undisturbed areas and can cause significant damage to household goods over time. Adults are winged and are often seen near windows as they seek pollen and nectar outdoors, or inside as they lay eggs.

Risks & Benefits

Risks: Can cause significant damage to fabrics, carpets, clothing, and other keratin-containing items. They are considered household pests. Some people may experience skin irritation from their bristles, though they do not bite or sting. Benefits: In nature, they are detritivores, breaking down organic matter like animal carcasses and insect remains, thus playing a role in decomposition.

Identified on: 11/16/2025