Carpet Beetle (likely larva)

Natural Habitat

Indoors, commonly found in homes, museums, and warehouses; often in dark, undisturbed areas like under carpets, rugs, furniture, closets, and attics. They feed on animal-derived materials.

Diet & Feeding

Larvae feed on a wide variety of animal products, including wool, silk, feathers, leather, fur, dead insects, pet hair, and even some dried plant materials. This also includes carpets, upholstered furniture, clothing, and stored food products.

Behavior Patterns

Carpet beetle larvae are typically slow-moving and prefer dark, undisturbed areas. They molt several times, leaving behind shed skins. Adults are often found near windows in spring as they are attracted to light and feed on pollen and nectar outdoors, then fly indoors to lay eggs. Their life cycle can range from several months to a year, depending on conditions and species.

Risks & Benefits

Potential risks include damage to natural fibers (carpets, clothing, upholstery), museum specimens, and stored foods. They do not bite humans or transmit diseases. Benefits are negligible in a household setting, but in nature, they play a role in decomposition, feeding on carrion and dried organic matter.

Identified on: 10/19/2025