Carpet Beetle Larva

Found indoors in darkness or low light, often hiding near baseboards, under furniture, in closets, pantries, and in carpets or woolen fabrics.

Feeds on a wide variety of natural fibers and detritus including wool, hair, fur, feathers, dead insects, grains, spices, and pet food.

Larvae prefer dark, undisturbed areas; they move slowly and may curl up if disturbed. They molt several times, often leaving behind empty shed skins that look like the larvae themselves. They eventually pupate before emerging as small, round beetles.

Risks: Can cause significant damage to household fabrics (rugs, clothing, upholstery) and preserved insect collections. The hairs/bristles can cause allergic skin reactions (dermatitis) in some people. Benefits: In nature, they act as decomposers of dead animal matter, though this is less helpful inside a home.