Carpet Beetle Larva

Natural Habitat

Indoors, especially in undisturbed areas rich in animal fibers (wool, silk, fur, feathers), carpets, upholstered furniture, clothing, dry pet food, stored products, and sometimes insect collections.

Diet & Feeding

Keratin-containing materials of animal origin (wool, silk, fur, feathers), dried insect remains, stored food products like grains, spices, and pet food.

Behavior Patterns

Larvae are typically slow-moving and avoid light. They feed on natural fibers and detritus. Adult carpet beetles feed on pollen and nectar outdoors but may enter homes to lay eggs. Larval stages can last several months to a year depending on conditions before pupating.

Risks & Benefits

Potential risks include damage to personal property (carpets, clothing, furniture made of natural fibers) and stored food products. Some people may develop allergic reactions to larval hairs or shed casings. They do not bite or transmit diseases to humans. Benefits are negligible in an indoor setting, though outdoors, they can be involved in decomposition of animal remains.

Identified on: 11/27/2025