Carpet Beetle larvae (likely)

Natural Habitat

Indoors, especially in areas with natural fibers like carpets, rugs, woolens, furs, taxidermy, and stored food products. Can also be found in nests of birds and mammals.

Diet & Feeding

Larvae feed on a wide variety of animal and plant products, including wool, silk, feathers, fur, leather, dead insects, pet food, and sometimes spices and grains.

Behavior Patterns

Larvae are often found foraging in dark, undisturbed areas. They are slow-moving and tend to curl up when disturbed. Adults are winged and are attracted to light, often found near windows.

Risks & Benefits

Risks: Can cause significant damage to natural fiber textiles, stored products, and museum specimens. Some people may experience allergic reactions to larval hairs. Benefits: Rarely beneficial, but in some ecological contexts, they help in the decomposition of animal remains.

Identified on: 10/7/2025