Carpet Beetle Larva (likely shedding or dried debris)
Scientific Name: Anthrenus verbasci (Varied Carpet Beetle) or Attagenus unicolor (Black Carpet Beetle)
Order & Family: Coleoptera; Dermestidae
Size: Larvae are typically 4-5 mm in length; adults are smaller, around 2-3 mm.
Natural Habitat
Found indoors in carpets, closets, under furniture, pantries, and near bird or wasp nests outdoors. They thrive in dark, undisturbed areas with natural fibers.
Diet & Feeding
Keratin-rich organic materials including wool, silk, fur, feathers, hair, dried skin, dead insects, and sometimes stored grain products.
Behavior Patterns
Larvae are photophobic (avoid light) and prefer secluded spots. They are known for 'wandering' away from their food source when ready to pupate. The image likely shows a larva that is either molting (shedding its skin) or is a dried husk.
Risks & Benefits
Risks: Major household pest; larvae damage fabrics, clothing, carpets, and museum specimens. Some people experience allergic dermatitis ('carpet beetle rash') from contact with the larva's bristly hairs. Benefits: In nature, they act as decomposers of dead animal matter.
Identified on: 3/7/2026