Carpet Beetle (Larva)

Found indoors in homes, warehouses, and museums; outdoors in bird nests or on flowers.

Larvae feed on dry animal products (wool, fur, feathers, silk, leather) and dried plant materials; adults feed on pollen and nectar.

Larvae are photophobic (avoid light) and crawl slowly; they undergo complete metamorphosis, often spending 1-3 years in the larval stage.

Larvae are significant household pests that damage textiles and stored goods; their bristly hairs can cause skin irritation or allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.