Carpet Beetle Larva

Natural Habitat

Indoor environments, frequently found in carpets, upholstery, closets, baseboards, and bird/rodent nests.

Diet & Feeding

Scavengers that feed on organic materials including wool, silk, fur, feathers, dead skin cells, hair, and dried pet food.

Behavior Patterns

Larvae prefer dark, undisturbed areas. They are slow-moving and go through multiple molts, leaving behind hollow, fuzzy-looking shed skins.

Risks & Benefits

While they do not bite humans, their larval hairs (hastisetae) can cause skin irritation or allergic reactions in sensitive individuals. They are significant pests that cause damage to natural fiber textiles and stored goods.

Identified on: 1/5/2026