Carpet Beetle (Larva)

Indoor environments, specifically within carpets, upholstery, closets, and baseboards; outdoors in bird nests or on flowering plants.

Larvae scavenge for organic materials including wool, silk, feathers, fur, dead skin, hair, pet dander, and dried food products. Adults feed on pollen and nectar.

Larvae are slow-moving and avoid light (negatively phototactic). They undergo several molts, leaving behind thin, papery brown skins. They can survive for long periods without food.

Risks: Major household pest that can damage textiles, clothing, and natural fibers. Larval hairs can cause 'carpet beetle dermatitis' (skin irritation or allergic reactions in sensitive individuals). Benefits: In the wild, they act as decomposers by breaking down animal remains.