Carpet Beetle Larva (with debris cocoon)

Natural Habitat

Indoors, especially in areas with animal products (wool, silk, leather, fur, feathers), dried food products, and lint/dust accumulations. Outdoors, they can be found in nests of birds and mammals, and on carrion.

Diet & Feeding

Larvae feed on a variety of animal and plant-based materials, including wool, silk, leather, fur, feathers, dried pet food, insect remains, and lint. They are scavengers.

Behavior Patterns

Carpet beetle larvae are often found hidden in dark, undisturbed areas. They are known for their slow movement and the ability to consume a wide range of organic materials. The image appears to show a larva covered in a protective casing of debris, which is a common behavior for carpet beetle larvae to camouflage themselves.

Risks & Benefits

Risks: Carpet beetle larvae are common household pests that can cause significant damage to fabrics, carpets, clothing, and stored food items made of animal products. They do not bite or sting humans, but some people may experience skin irritation from their bristly hairs. Benefits: In nature, they play a role as scavengers, consuming decaying organic matter.

Identified on: 9/22/2025