Varied Carpet Beetle Larva

Commonly found indoors in carpets, upholstery, closets, and air ducts; also found outdoors in birds' nests.

Larvae feed on natural animal fibers like wool, silk, feathers, fur, and hair, as well as dead insects and dried food like flour and pasta.

Long-lived larval stage (up to 3 years) with multiple molts; they tend to avoid light and prefer dark, undisturbed areas. Adults are nectar and pollen feeders that seek light.

Can cause significant damage to household goods and textiles; larval hairs can cause skin irritation or allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.